Charleston, October 13, 2025
News Summary
On October 18, nationwide No Kings demonstrations are set to take place, focusing on issues such as government shutdowns and immigration policies. Major gatherings are planned in Charleston and other South Carolina cities, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion. Activists are emphasizing a peaceful approach, highlighting previous protests in Charleston that were overwhelmingly peaceful. The movement aims to unify voices against the current administration’s policies and foster engagement in democracy.
Charleston
No Kings demonstrations are set to unfold across the nation on October 18, 2025, specifically targeting a wide range of issues, including the ongoing government shutdown and policies related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The noontime protests will attract participants united against the Trump administration’s actions, focusing particularly on immigration and LGBTQ+ rights.
In the Lowcountry, significant gatherings are planned in Charleston, Hilton Head, Beaufort, and Bluffton. Other major South Carolina cities scheduled to host protests include Florence, Greenville, and Columbia. Organizers are anticipating a substantial turnout, claiming that “millions” will rally across various locations throughout the United States. The protests are part of the broader No Kings movement, which emphasizes nonviolent actions and aims to promote inclusion and democracy.
The upcoming protests coincide with an ongoing government shutdown that has severely impacted federal workers and services, aggravating public discontent. Activists are also raising concerns about recent ICE operations in Portland, which have come under intense scrutiny. Significant tensions have arisen, particularly as the Trump administration considers invoking the Insurrection Act to suppress dissent, raising alarms among activists and politicians alike.
The No Kings movement prides itself on maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. Previous protests in Charleston in June 2025, which local police described as “overwhelmingly peaceful,” set a precedent for the peaceful nature of the upcoming demonstrations. A ban on weapons will be strictly enforced at all events, and participants are expected to prioritize de-escalation to avoid confrontations. Despite previous incidents, including two arrests for trespassing and disorderly conduct, police reported that the crowd at the June rally dispersed without further incident.
As speakers addressed the crowd during the June protests, a broad spectrum of social justice issues, including the significance of defending democracy, came to the forefront. U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews and former Congressman Joe Walsh were among the local leaders participating in prior demonstrations, emphasizing the urgent need for democratization and cautioning against excessive presidential power. The peaceful protests have consistently featured attendees waving flags and carrying signs with messages advocating for inclusion, equality, and democracy, highlighting the underlying purpose of these rallies.
While preparations continue for the upcoming events, local leaders and activists remain focused on unity and drawing attention to the perceived threats against American democracy and societal values. Enhanced security measures are anticipated, but the emphasis remains on the planned peaceful conduct of protesters. The nationwide movement aims to galvanize collective voices united against the administration’s policies and promote engagement in democratic processes across the country.
FAQ Section
What is the date of the No Kings demonstrations?
No Kings demonstrations are planned across the nation on October 18, 2025.
How many protests are taking place in South Carolina?
Other major cities in South Carolina hosting protests include Florence, Greenville, and Columbia.
What issues will the No Kings protests address?
The protests coincide with an ongoing government shutdown affecting federal workers and services. The protests also address issues related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations in Portland.
What is the goal of the No Kings movement?
The No Kings movement claims “millions” will gather for protests in the U.S. with a focus on inclusion and democracy.
What was the nature of previous protests in Charleston?
Previous protests in Charleston in June 2025 were declared “overwhelmingly peaceful” by local police.
What actions are being promoted at the protests?
Nonviolent actions are a core principle of the No Kings movement, with a ban on weapons at events.
Who were the notable speakers at previous protests?
Several local leaders and speakers participated, including U.S. Senate candidate Dr. Annie Andrews and former Congressman Joe Walsh.
Key Features of the No Kings Demonstrations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 18, 2025 |
| Locations | Charleston, Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton, Florence, Greenville, and Columbia |
| Key Issues | Government shutdown, ICE operations, immigration, LGBTQ+ rights |
| Nature of Protests | Peaceful, nonviolent actions, ban on weapons |
| Prominent Leaders | Dr. Annie Andrews, Joe Walsh |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Chaos in Florida’s Immigration Enforcement: Lawyer Found in Contempt
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Thousands Rally in Charleston Against Trump Administration
Protests Erupt in Charleston Against Trump Administration
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Live 5 News
- Count On 2
- Charleston City Paper
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: No Kings
- Google Search: No Kings protests
- Google Scholar: No Kings protests
- Encyclopedia Britannica: No Kings movement
- Google News: No Kings protests
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
