UPDATE: Thousands of community members across the North Shore gathered on Saturday, October 21, 2023, for the national “No Kings” protests, voicing strong opposition against the influence of billionaires and the Trump Administration. By 10 a.m., approximately 1,200 protesters filled Linscott Park in Swampscott, organized by North Shore Indivisible, demonstrating a powerful display of unity and determination.
Event organizer Michael Paquette expressed pride in the turnout, stating, “What an amazing, peaceful, and energetic crowd we had today at the Swampscott ‘No Kings’ day.” Participants spread out across the monument and along Humphrey Street, with overwhelming support echoed through honks from passing cars.
Local leaders, including Representative Seth Moulton, joined the protest, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement. “What better representation of democracy than what you see right here in Swampscott this morning? This is what America is all about… It’s about the power of the people,” Moulton declared.
The rally was not just a political statement; it was a deeply personal one for many attendees. William Kozlosky, who attended with his mother Gloria, expressed his concerns about President Trump, stating, “We have a dictator as president, who is taking away people’s benefits and health care.” Gloria added, “All people, young and old, should get out there and show your anger.”
Participants conveyed a sense of urgency about the state of the nation. Jill Porten shared her fears regarding the erosion of democratic values, while Doug Ellis highlighted concerns over government overreach. “It’s important to remind people and stay focused,” he said.
Amid the protests, tensions flared when an individual dressed in an inflatable Trump costume was assaulted, leading to an arrest, according to Police Capt. Joe Kable. “I’m just sad for our country… there’s still hope,” said Allison Staton as she lamented the current political climate.
In a parallel effort, residents of Peabody rallied outside City Hall, with Councilor-at-Large Candidate Tristan R. Brown reflecting on his commitment to civic duty, stating, “I think we all have to stand up, to demonstrate and fight back appropriately.”
Saugus also witnessed a surge in participation, with Mary Robblee of the Saugus Democratic Town Committee noting that attendance doubled to about 30 people during the “No Kings” protests. “It was a peaceful protest but not without the occasional drive-by insults,” she reported.
In Marblehead, approximately 825 protesters gathered at the corner of Maple and Lafayette Streets in the afternoon. Attendee Dr. Elizabeth Sullivan voiced her fears of a fascist government, stating, “It’s obvious that there’s a blatant misuse of the constitution.”
Voices of support for the LGBTQ community were strong, with Jason Hatzigiannis and his mother Amy Gibson advocating for justice for all. “Liberty and justice is for all, not just for some,” Gibson emphasized.
Elderly attendees like Claire Helfman, 83, expressed their distress over the current administration. “The man (Trump) is evil to his core… How many people could he feed and clothe with that money?” she lamented, reflecting the sentiments of many concerned citizens.
The growing movement reflects a deep-seated desire among citizens to reclaim democratic values and resist what they perceive as authoritarian governance. North Shore Indivisible volunteer Kate Borten encapsulated the sentiment, stating, “I’ve never been frightened for this country and the younger generations.”
As the protests come to a close, local organizers aim to sustain momentum, with plans for future gatherings every Saturday morning.
Watch for further developments as communities across the nation continue to mobilize against perceived threats to democracy and civil liberties.
