Charlotte, NC, October 18, 2025
News Summary
Dozens of ‘No Kings’ protests are planned across the Carolinas on October 18, with millions expected to participate. The main event will be held in Charlotte at First Ward Park, organized by Indivisible Charlotte, aiming for a peaceful demonstration. Organizers emphasize safety measures and respectful conduct amid past clashes. These protests address issues like immigration enforcement and redistricting, highlighting civic engagement as the election season approaches.
Charlotte – Dozens of “No Kings” protests are scheduled across the Carolinas on Saturday, October 18, with millions of participants projected to join one of thousands of protests across the U.S. More than 50 protests are expected in North Carolina and over 15 in South Carolina. A significant protest is planned in Uptown, Charlotte, at First Ward Park, organized by Indivisible Charlotte, which anticipates a larger turnout than the initial protest held in June.
In addition to the main event in Charlotte, additional protests are scheduled in nearby locations including Cornelius, Belmont, Concord, Monroe, and Waxhaw. Organizers emphasized a commitment to peaceful demonstration, aiming to avoid any violence. The Charlotte protest will feature guest speakers, music, and opportunities for peaceful expressions of opinion. Organizers have collaborated with the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) for event planning to ensure safety during the protests.
Past protests, particularly one held in June, experienced clashes between protesters and police, leading to the use of pepper spray by officers. In light of this, Charlotte organizers are urging demonstrators to avoid signs with hate symbols or profanity to maintain a respectful environment. Trained crowd-control marshals, identifiable by their visible vests, are expected to assist attendees during the event.
The CMPD has reaffirmed its commitment to public safety and the right to peaceful assembly ahead of the protests. Political reactions to the events have been mixed, with Republican lawmakers criticizing the protests. House Speaker Mike Johnson labeled the events as a “hate America rally,” while Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries defended them as expressions of patriotism.
The No Kings protests aim to highlight opposition to key issues such as increased immigration enforcement and partisan congressional map redistricting. The preceding protest on June 14 witnessed significant public turnout and vocal opposition against the Trump administration. Organizers assert that America does not belong to “kings, dictators, or tyrants” and underscore the empowerment of the people.
As a precaution, the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have advised attendees to stay hydrated, be aware of their surroundings, and securely keep their belongings. The protests are seen as vital demonstrations for civic engagement and political change as the upcoming election season approaches.
FAQ
What are the “No Kings” protests?
The “No Kings” protests are scheduled across the Carolinas on Saturday, October 18, to express opposition to various issues, including increased immigration enforcement and partisan congressional map redistricting.
Where will the protests take place?
More than 50 protests are expected in North Carolina and over 15 in South Carolina, with a significant protest planned in Uptown, Charlotte, at First Ward Park.
Who organized the Charlotte protest?
Indivisible Charlotte coordinated the Uptown protest in Charlotte.
What is the expected attendance for the protests?
Millions of participants are projected to join one of thousands of protests across the U.S.
What measures are being taken for safety during the protests?
Organizers have collaborated with the CMPD for event planning, ensuring a commitment to public safety. Trained crowd-control marshals will assist attendees, and police have advised attendees to remain hydrated and aware of their surroundings.
Key Features of the Protests
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | October 18 |
| Locations Happening | North Carolina (over 50), South Carolina (over 15) |
| Main Protest Location | First Ward Park, Uptown Charlotte |
| Organizers | Indivisible Charlotte |
| Past Protests Context | Initial protest on June 14 with significant turnout and some clashes with police |
| Goals | Opposition to issues like immigration enforcement and redistricting |
| Safety Measures | Collaboration with CMPD, crowd control marshals, and advice to keep hydrated |
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Additional Resources
- WBTV: Charlotte Among Cities to Hold ‘No Kings’ Protest
- WCNC: ‘No Kings’ Protests in Charlotte
- Spectrum Local News: No Kings Protest in Charlotte
- WXII12: No Kings Protests Across North Carolina
- Charlotte Observer: ‘No Kings’ Protests Planned
- Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
- Google Search: No Kings Protests
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protest
- Google News: No Kings Protests
- Google Scholar: No Kings Protests
Author: HERE Charlotte
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