Voting advocacy, peaceful demonstrations and donations: South Bend joins national No Kings protest

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Hundreds of people gathered Saturday in downtown South Bend as part of a nationwide “No Kings” protest movement opposing the current administration.

Attendees filled Jon Hunt Memorial Plaza, in union with similar events held in cities across the country. Organizers said the effort spanned all 50 states, with nearly 70 communities participating across Indiana alone.

Protesters carried signs and chanted slogans as they called for civic engagement and political action.

“I was in Washington last fall for one of their protests at the Lincoln Memorial — it’s the same mentality, the same enthusiasm,” said Patti Gragg, who attended Saturday’s rally. “You don’t have to be flashy…. just be out there and show quantity.”

The “No Kings” movement is described as a peaceful effort aimed at raising awareness about what participants view as authoritarian actions by the current administration.

“It has affected my mental health, because I worry so much about all the people being hurt in this country,” said Lorri Wright.

In addition to protesting, participants promoted voter registration and collected donations for local food pantries and La Casa Amistad.

“I hope it brings more people out to vote,” Wright said. “And to vote blue.”

Even with concerns about the state of the country, many attendees said the gathering offered a sense of optimism and community.

“We need to start in this community and make an impact to grow larger and larger,” said Angel Bell. “To make a difference in the whole world.”

Speakers at the event emphasized the importance of upcoming voter registration deadline. Residents can register online through the state’s voter portal at https://indianavoters.in.gov .