No Kings protests are due to take place across Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia on Saturday, October 17, as organisers turn a nationwide campaign against Donald Trump’s administration into a day of early-voting activity.
The events form part of a coordinated national mobilisation branded “No Kings: Vote Early”. Organisers say gatherings will be held across all 50 states and Washington DC, with an interactive map listing locations, times and registration details. ([nokings.org](https://www.nokings.org/))
No Kings protests planned across the DMV
In Washington, a rally at the Watergate Steps is scheduled from 10am to noon, followed by a march across Memorial Bridge to Memorial Circle. The event is being organised by Third Act DMV, a regional group bringing together activists from the District, Maryland and Virginia.
Participants are expected to receive information on voter registration and polling locations, as well as ballot issues in the three jurisdictions. Organisers say the gathering will also highlight opposition to a proposed triumphal arch near Memorial Circle.
Other events are planned in Maryland, including a visibility rally on Rockville Pike near North Bethesda Metro from 11am to 1pm. In Virginia, an early-vote event is due to take place at the junction of Route 7 and Gosnell Road in Tysons Corner between 1.30pm and 3pm. ([acluva.org](https://www.acluva.org/event/no-kings-vote-early-gathering/))
The scale and format of individual demonstrations will vary, with organisers describing events ranging from rallies and marches to community gatherings and walks to polling locations. The central message is that eligible voters should understand their options, make a voting plan and cast their ballots early where possible.
What is the No Kings movement?
The movement was established by groups including 50501, Indivisible and MoveOn in opposition to what organisers describe as authoritarian conduct by the Trump administration. It argues that political power belongs to voters rather than politicians, wealthy donors or any individual leader.
MoveOn, a member of the No Kings Coalition, said the October 17 mobilisation was intended to build on earlier nationwide demonstrations while shifting the emphasis towards non-partisan voter participation. The coalition’s partners include the American Federation of Teachers, Black Voters Matter Fund, Public Citizen, State Voices and Voto Latino. ([front.moveon.org](https://front.moveon.org/news_room/move-on-no-kings-coalition-announce-nationwide-early-voting-day-of-action-for-october-17/))
No Kings organisers say all events are intended to be non-violent and lawful. They have urged participants to de-escalate disagreements, avoid civil disobedience and not bring weapons to demonstrations. ([nokings.org](https://www.nokings.org/))
