Charleston, October 19, 2025
News Summary
Charleston witnessed significant crowds as thousands gathered for #NoKings rallies advocating for democracy and freedom. Protesters showcased their sentiments with signs and humor, demonstrating opposition to authoritarianism. Events took place across North Charleston and Summerville, with participants voicing concerns over democracy and social issues. Meanwhile, protests in West Virginia echoed similar themes. The rallies were peaceful, monitored by law enforcement, highlighting a collective push for change and democratic engagement across communities.
Charleston witnessed significant crowds on October 18, 2025, as up to 4,000 individuals gathered for peaceful #NoKings rallies in North Charleston and Summerville. The protesters, advocating for democracy and freedom, showcased their sentiments with humorous placards, inflatable animals, and honking horns. The events aimed to counter narratives presented by national and state Republican leaders, marking a clear stance against the notion that these were “Hate America” gatherings.
The #NoKings movement organizers had ambitious plans, anticipating protests in over 1,900 communities globally to create the largest pro-democracy rally day in history. In South Carolina alone, Columbia reported approximately 2,500 attendees at the beginning of their rally, while North Charleston saw an estimated 3,000 participants lining Ashley Phosphate Road for about 4/10 of a mile.
The crowd in North Charleston consisted primarily of white, middle-class individuals who voiced their support for democracy and opposition to authoritarianism. Protest signs included messages such as “Just say no to fascism,” “Only you can prevent Truth Decay,” and “We the people resist.” According to North Charleston city spokesman Ryan Johnson, the event concluded without any incidents, with police presence being unobtrusive.
In Summerville, over 1,000 protesters took to North Main Street, creating a vibrant atmosphere enhanced by shaded areas. Protesters in this location displayed signs with slogans like “Silence is not safety; Freedom starts with speech” and “End Trump’s tyranny & Fascism now!”
Simultaneously, protests occurred at the West Virginia State Capitol in Charleston, where hundreds gathered to express anti-Trump sentiments and voice concerns for democracy. The West Virginia demonstration was organized by various groups, including the West Virginia Citizen Action Group, West Virginia Free, and the Charleston branch of the NAACP. Marchers walked two miles from the Robert C. Byrd federal courthouse to the state capitol, joining approximately 200 others at the rally.
Participants in West Virginia chanted slogans like, “No kings, no KKK, no fascist USA.” Notably, the age range among attendees was diverse, including young children in strollers and senior citizens in their 80s and 90s. They expressed concerns regarding threats to democracy and various social issues, such as ICE operations, healthcare cuts, and the persecution of marginalized communities. Speaker Del. Mike Pushkin of West Virginia engaged attendees with music while emphasizing the critical need to protect democracy.
Law enforcement agencies monitored the protests closely, ensuring a peaceful and non-violent atmosphere throughout the events. In a follow-up to the demonstrations, a virtual event discussing the future of the #NoKings movement is scheduled for October 21, 2025.
Key Events and Messages from the Rallies
- North Charleston: 3,000 participants lined Ashley Phosphate Road.
- Summerville: Over 1,000 protesters gathered on North Main Street.
- West Virginia: Around 400 protesters participated, marching from the federal courthouse to the state capitol.
- Number of anticipated worldwide protests: over 1,900 communities.
- Major themes included support for democracy, opposition to authoritarianism, and concerns over social issues.
Conclusion
The rallies exemplified a collective push for democracy across various states, showcasing the public’s desire for change and greater participation in the democratic process as a significant movement unfolded across communities.
FAQ Section
What was the purpose of the #NoKings rallies?
The #NoKings rallies aimed to promote democracy and freedom while opposing authoritarianism.
How many people participated in the North Charleston rally?
An estimated 3,000 protesters participated in the North Charleston rally.
Were the protests peaceful?
Yes, the rallies concluded without incidents or conflicts, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere throughout.
What were some of the concerns voiced by participants during the rallies?
Participants voiced concerns over threats to democracy, ICE operations, healthcare cuts, and the persecution of marginalized communities.
When is the follow-up virtual event scheduled?
A virtual event to discuss the future of the #NoKings movement is scheduled for October 21, 2025.
Chart of Key Features
| Location | Estimated Participants | Key Themes |
|---|---|---|
| North Charleston | 3,000 | Support for democracy, anti-authoritarianism |
| Summerville | 1,000+ | Freedom of speech, opposition to tyranny |
| West Virginia | 400+ | Concerns over democracy, social issues |
| Nationwide Protests | 1,900+ communities expected | Pro-democracy advocacy |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Thousands Gather for ‘No Kings’ National Day of Action Protests
North Charleston Hosts Rally for Democracy
Additional Resources
- West Virginia Watch: Protesters Turn Out en Masse Against Trump During No Kings Protest
- Live 5 News: No Kings Protest Brings Over 2,000 People to North Charleston
- Post and Courier: No Kings Protest at Ashley Phosphate, North Charleston
- ABC News 4: Crowds Gather for Summerville No Kings Protests
- Charleston City Paper: Photo Essay – Thousands Push for Freedom at Peaceful No Kings Rallies
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.
