Columbia, South Carolina, October 16, 2025
News Summary
A significant civil rights protest is expected to take place at the Statehouse in Columbia, drawing thousands of participants this Saturday. Organized in response to a government shutdown affecting federal workers and increased ICE operations, the event underscores a broader movement with over 2,500 protests scheduled nationwide. Participants will march 1.3 miles to the governor’s mansion, emphasizing the importance of defending democratic values and peaceful dissent against authoritarian practices. Local leaders and civil rights groups are instrumental in this demonstration, aiming to preserve the rights of marginalized communities.
Columbia, South Carolina – Thousands of protesters are expected to gather at the Statehouse in Columbia at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday for a major civil rights protest. Organizers anticipate that this event is part of a broader movement, with over 2,500 protests scheduled nationwide, as well as in Europe and Canada, potentially making it the largest organized demonstration in U.S. history.
The Columbia protest aims to gather supporters who will march 1.3 miles to the governor’s mansion. This initiative is occurring alongside an ongoing government shutdown, which is threatening the livelihoods of federal workers and impacting various services. The protests are also a response to increased operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in U.S. cities, along with discussions within the Trump administration regarding the potential invocation of the Insurrection Act to suppress political dissent.
Organizers emphasize the importance of this protest as a means to defend democracy amidst what they describe as an authoritarian regime in the country. They aim to preserve democratic values while acknowledging the historical shortcomings in addressing the needs of marginalized communities. This protest follows the successful “No Kings” rallies held in June, which remained peaceful and focused on community dissent against authoritarianism.
The protest in Columbia is not the only event for those looking to express their views; two additional rallies are scheduled on the same day. One rally will take place in Summerville from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and another in North Charleston from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The Charleston County Democratic Party Chair plans to participate in both events, reinforcing the significance of local organizing efforts.
The North Charleston rally directly responds to claims made by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, who has suggested that previous protests could lead to violence and chaos. Organizers dispute these assertions, with evidence obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request showing no basis for claims of outside agitators or unrest. An attorney has criticized the attorney general’s statements as unfounded fears that could discourage peaceful demonstrators.
Law enforcement officials are expected to be present at the Columbia protest. Their primary role will be to ensure the safety of attendees in case of potential counter-protesters. Organizers are committed to maintaining a peaceful atmosphere, adhering to nonviolent protest strategies that have been effective throughout civil rights movements in the past.
The American Civil Liberties Union has made resources available to educate participants about their legal rights, aiming to mitigate any misunderstandings or dangerous encounters with law enforcement during the protests.
As the nation grapples with issues of political dissent and civil liberties, this weekend’s protests across South Carolina and beyond signify citizens’ commitment to advocating for their rights and the preservation of democratic principles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What time and location is the main protest in Columbia, South Carolina?
The main protest is expected to gather at the Statehouse in Columbia at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday.
How many protests are planned nationwide?
Over 2,500 events are planned nationwide, including demonstrations in Europe and Canada.
What is the route of the march in Columbia?
The protesters plan to march 1.3 miles from the Statehouse to the governor’s mansion.
Which organizations are involved in organizing the protests?
The protests are organized by various civil rights groups, local Democratic Party leaders, and citizen activists.
Key Features of the Protests
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Main Protest Location | Statehouse, Columbia, SC |
| Protest Start Time | 1:30 p.m. on Saturday |
| Nationwide Events | Over 2,500 planned |
| March Distance | 1.3 miles to the governor’s mansion |
| Other Scheduled Rallies | Summerville (10 a.m. – 1 p.m.), North Charleston (1 p.m. – 3 p.m.) |
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Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: No Kings Protest in Columbia
- Wikipedia: Civil Rights Movement
- ABC News 4: Multiple No Kings Protests
- Google Search: Protests in South Carolina
- West Virginia Watch: Protests Against Medicaid Cuts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protest
- Live 5 News: Hundreds Gather for No Kings Protest
- Google News: No Kings Protest
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