On Oct. 18, protesters in yellow clothing stretched five blocks down the sidewalks of Calkins Road, waving hundreds of colorful signs and American flags. The volunteer-organized rally, held from 2–4 p.m. at Henrietta town hall, drew protesters of all ages who spoke out against President Donald Trump and his administration’s actions, including recent mass firings and deportations.
The first ‘No Kings’ protests began on June 14, 2025, founded by a variety of grassroots political groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union, Third Act Movement and 50501. Now, a second wave of nationwide protests has been organized by citizens around the country. The demonstrations gave Americans across the country an outlet to peacefully protest against Trump. According to the ‘No Kings’ website, the total number of protesters across all 50 states reached nearly 7 million.
‘No Kings’ organizers asked protesters to wear yellow as a symbol of nonviolent dissent and unity. On their website, they explained, “Yellow is our shared signal, bright, bold, and impossible to ignore, a reminder that America’s power belongs to our people, not to kings.”
When asked about their reasons for attending the protests, protesters offered a variety of different responses.
“We know it’s parents’ weekend this weekend,” explained Susan Anderson, a parent of an RIT student. “We knew it was important to stand with our kids and stand up for their future.”
Others expressed concern about the nation’s trajectory under the current administration.
“I want my kids to have a better world to grow up in, and he [Trump] keeps destroying it,” commented Sandy Simpson, a protester.
Protesters could be heard chanting, “Hey-hey, ho-ho, Donald Trump has got to go!” and banging drums. Others shouted, “This is what democracy looks like!.”
“We have to speak up, we can’t stay silent,” one demonstrator, Erica Silloway, remarked. “We’re out here for people who aren’t comfortable or can’t be out here today. We all should be represented and feel comfortable.”
“I try to come to every protest I can,” said Alex Lasher, an activist who held a handmade cardboard sign showing his support.
Signs at the protest read:
- “Hate never made countries great!”
- “Free speech is an American right!”
- “Tax the rich, no kings!”
- “We have a constitution, not a king!”
- “My body, my voice, my mind, my choice.”
- “Abolish ICE!”
Tables were set up with colored markers and paper for protesters to design their own signs. Pamphlets were also available, explaining how citizens of Henrietta can vote in local elections on Nov. 4.
Another table, staffed by Henrietta Neighbors for Democracy, who organized Henrietta’s first ‘No Kings’ event in June — collected personal care items like toothbrushes, toothpaste and menstrual pads for a mutual aid drive.
“We wanted to make sure we had a presence here in Henrietta and people could feel comfortable coming out saying what they feel,” said Kathleen Cali, a member of Henrietta Neighbors for Democracy. “We all have people who are affected by what’s happening in the Trump government, and we feel like we can’t stay silent about it.”
The ‘No Kings’ website details next steps for activists, including a sign-up for a virtual mass phone call taking place on Oct. 21 from 8-9 p.m.
