Thousands March in Western New York for ‘No Kings’ Movement

Thousands of individuals rallied across Western New York on October 18, 2025, as part of the nationwide **’No Kings’ movement**, protesting against policies implemented by the Trump administration. The demonstrations were characterized by participants holding signs and voicing concerns about various issues, including increased immigration enforcement and cuts to social programs.

In Rochester’s **Genesee Gateway Park**, an estimated **5,000** people gathered to express their views. **Jalen Wims**, who participated with friends **Maeve O’Brien** and **Natalia Orozco**, emphasized the importance of civic engagement, stating, “We can take a second out of our busy lives to show up for a cause or something that we deem is important. We can make a change and we can do that in a positive way.”

The protests occurred during a critical period, as the United States approached a third week of a **Republican-led shutdown** of the federal government. Demonstrators voiced their opposition to the deployment of the National Guard in American cities, arguing that such measures only exacerbate tensions in communities. Orozco, who moved to the U.S. from Colombia to further her education, articulated her concerns: “I’m here today because I want to be heard. There are some issues in this country that affect me and my future.”

In Fairport, participant **Nathan Leedom** addressed recent comments made by House Speaker **Mike Johnson**, who described the ‘No Kings’ movement as “Hate America rallies.” Leedom countered, stating, “But look at all these American flags. Look at all these people who love this country—and they hate what they see.”

Eighteen-year-olds **Hayden Damer** and **Chase Kennedy** also joined the protests, expressing their eagerness to vote for the first time. Damer remarked, “We’re the future of America and the country. So I think a lot more of us should be out here and participating or else people are going to run it without our own knowing.” He further criticized the administration’s immigration policies, insisting, “There are better and safer ways to do this. Making it so that people can’t live here is just a problem.”

Concerns regarding healthcare access were prevalent among demonstrators. One participant, **Roxanne**, shared her fears about the potential impact of healthcare cuts on her financial stability. “I do have health issues and I require expensive ultrasounds and treatments and I’m concerned. I feel like I’ll just be left out to die because I won’t be able to afford my health insurance,” she said.

**Dr. Arnold Matlin**, of **Genesee Valley Citizens for Peace**, organized rallies in more conservative areas, such as **Livingston County**. He noted the importance of bringing activism to these smaller communities, stating, “These are the places where we need to come out in the small towns typically conservative as you say but still full of activists as you can see.”

Meanwhile, House Speaker Johnson took to social media platform X to characterize the protests as funded by leftist organizations, stating that they were sponsored by “Soros and the Communist Party USA.” He reiterated his view that such gatherings represent a “Hate America Rally.” In response, **Peter Elder**, chair of the Monroe GOP, highlighted the irony of the situation, noting, “If we truly lived under a king, this protest wouldn’t be allowed. The very ability to speak out is a testament to the freedom we all share—and we fully support that right, for everyone.”

The events in Western New York reflect a growing discontent with the current political landscape and a mobilization of voices seeking change. As the protests unfold, they signify a broader movement that connects individuals across the country in their quest for social justice and advocacy.