News Summary
A significant protest took place in Hampton Park, Charleston, where over 1,200 people gathered to voice their opposition to President Trump’s administration as part of a nationwide ‘No Kings’ day of protests. Participants chanted slogans advocating for democracy and social justice, while notable speakers addressed key issues. The event, which saw two arrests but no reported violence, reflected a growing discontent towards current policies and was accompanied by subsequent protests in other South Carolina cities.
Charleston, South Carolina – On June 14, 2025, over 1,200 individuals gathered in Hampton Park for a significant protest against President Donald Trump and his administration. This event was part of a nationwide “No Kings” day of protests that took place across various cities in the United States. Participants expressed their opposition to policies and actions they believe undermine democracy and social justice.
The protest unfolded in warm weather, with the temperature reaching around 90°F and dropping to around 78°F later in the evening. The weather conditions were generally favorable, with a mix of sunshine and clouds, and winds blowing from the southwest at 10 to 20 mph.
Areas within Hampton Park were cordoned off by event organizers to ensure a safe space for the demonstrators. Participants engaged in chants such as “No hate. No fear. Immigrants are welcome here” and “The people united will never be divided!” The protest featured notable speakers including former Congressman Joe Walsh and U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews, who addressed the crowd on key issues relevant to the movement.
The local Charleston Police Department, which facilitated the event in collaboration with the Charleston Community Service Organization and Indivisible Charleston, reported two arrests during the protest. The individuals arrested were identified as Joseph Reynolds, 59, charged with trespassing and resisting arrest, and Matthews Colburn, 33, charged with disorderly conduct. Fortunately, there were no reports of violence or property damage during the protest.
Conflicts arose towards the end of the protest, when a mounted unit from the Charleston Police activated sirens as the demonstrators marched peacefully. Videos of the incident circulated online, showing a mounted patrol, including a horse identified as Mount Riley, allegedly charging at the protestors. This generated differing accounts from both police and protestors regarding the nature of the incident. The police asserted that no injuries occurred and indicated that the police response was due to protestors attempting to disrupt an arrest of an individual.
Following the main event, additional protests took place the next day at Brittlebank Park without any reported incidents. Other cities in South Carolina, such as Columbia, Summerville, and various locations in the Upstate, also held similar protests on the same day, demonstrating widespread discontent with the current administration.
The timing of the protests coincided with a planned military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and President Trump’s birthday. Many attendees expressed diverse motivations for participating, including support for democratic values, opposition to mass deportations, and advocacy for LGBTQ rights and other social issues.
Signs promoting various social causes, including immigration reform and healthcare, were prevalent among the demonstrators, reflecting the multifaceted nature of concerns voiced during the protest. The event was reported as well-coordinated and respectful, highlighting the desire for safe and lawful demonstrations.
Charleston’s police chief emphasized the importance of respecting peaceful demonstrations and acknowledged the value of civic participation in voicing differing opinions. This event in Charleston forms part of a broader national dialogue as citizens continue to express their views on pressing social and political issues facing the country today.
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Post and Courier
- Count on 2 News
- Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
- Google Search: No Kings protest 2025
