LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Community members in Marquette will line the sidewalks of the U.S. 41 business corridor this Saturday as part of a nationwide movement defending democracy.
Lake Superior Region Indivisible is hosting a local “No Kings!” demonstration on October 9 from 10:30 a.m. to noon, joining more than 100 rallies across Michigan and more than 2,000 nationwide. The day of action is part of the statewide “No Kings” events, announced this week by Michigan lawmakers and the Michigan Freedom Coalition, on October 18.
The demonstrations call attention to what organizers describe as threats to democratic institutions, including censorship, political intimidation, and abuses of power.
State Representative Laurie Pohutsky (D–Livonia) said the movement is rooted in the founding ideals of the nation.
“The founders fought a war to ensure that America would never have a king,” Pohutsky said. “Yet we are watching a president claim unchecked power and deploy troops against our citizens.”
Organizers emphasize that all rallies will be peaceful, nonviolent demonstrations. In Marquette, participants are asked to stand along U.S. 41 from Wilson Street westward and to avoid confrontations. No weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, will be allowed.
Jay Gibbs, one of the statewide organizers, said the events aim to show strength through civic unity. He says the recent increase in deployment of the National Guard on U.S. soil is an intimidation tactic to escalate otherwise peaceful protests.
“These deployments aren’t about public safety, they’re about domination and intimidation,” Gibbs said. “Because in America, we have no kings.”
Lake Superior Region Indivisible will also collect non-perishable food, hygiene, and cleaning supplies for local food pantries. Donations can be dropped off behind Wendy’s in the back of the parking lot during the demonstration.
Across Michigan, speakers and local leaders are encouraging residents to use their voices and their votes to defend democratic freedoms.
Rep. Carrie Rheinegans (D–Ann Arbor) said civic action is the only path forward.
“The courts won’t save us. The media won’t save us. Corporate America won’t save us. That leaves us — the people,” he said.
For a full list of statewide “No Kings” events, visit nokings.org. For details about the Marquette demonstration, visit lsrindivisible.org.
