Hundreds gathered at Smale Riverfront Park Saturday afternoon, Oct. 18, for the No Kings Protest, a national demonstration focused on defending democracy, protecting workers, and calling for an end to the ongoing government shutdown that has affected thousands of federal employees. From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., the downtown riverfront filled with signs, chants, and voices demanding accountability and a renewed commitment to constitutional principles.
The No Kings movement, which began earlier this year, has spread to cities nationwide. Protesters say their mission is to remind leaders that “America has no kings,” and that power rests with the people. The demonstration’s Cincinnati chapter joined counterparts across the country to denounce what they describe as rising authoritarianism and the erosion of democratic norms.
Organizers emphasized that the event was peaceful and community-oriented. Local speakers, artists, and faith leaders addressed the crowd about civic participation and the real-world consequences of prolonged government shutdowns…