No Kings Protest draws hundreds to Cincinnati’s Smale Park

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.
Vanessa Williams of Kennedy Heights said she came to “provide a voice” for public servants and citizens who believe in upholding the Constitution and restoring balance within the federal system.

“We need to stay connected to the Constitution, to a democratic society, and to change and restore our federal government,” Williams said. “End the furlough and bring workers back to work. They should not have been released because they have an important mission for all federal agencies. Even those laid off should be called back—they have the expertise and experience to meet that mission.”

Her words echoed the broader frustration among furloughed and contract workers who say they have been caught in the middle of political stalemates.
Brandon Graves of North Avondale said he joined the protest because staying silent was no longer an option.

“The everyday person has to speak up and let our elected officials know that what’s going on is not right,” Graves said. “I come to events like this because I can be safe and secure, but I also come for those who can’t—those whose jobs prevent them or who are fearful for their lives. We have to speak up for each other.”

As music played and children waved handmade signs, others used the event to promote mutual aid and local activism. Jesse Cup of Mount Healthy said his participation came from a belief in self-reliance and neighborly support.

“I don’t believe our federal government is going to save us. I don’t believe Ohio is going to save us,” Cup said. “We’ve got to depend on each other in the city of Cincinnati. We’re here to platform existing activist groups and get people involved and invested in their neighbors.”

The No Kings movement first gained national attention in June 2025 when thousands of people protested across the U.S. in opposition to what they viewed as antidemocratic actions by the federal administration. Saturday’s rally marked the movement’s second major day of coordinated action this year, according to organizers and national advocacy partners.

Despite its urgent tone, Saturday’s protest remained orderly and reflective. Attendees described it as a civic gathering rather than a partisan one—focused on the principles of justice, representation, and respect for civil servants who keep the government functioning.

By late afternoon, participants began dispersing along the Ohio River walkway, waving flags and chanting, “No crown, no throne, no kings.” Organizers said they plan to continue outreach efforts in the coming weeks, including voter-registration drives and community education sessions around government accountability.
For many, the riverfront setting symbolized resilience and renewal. The crowd’s energy—calm yet determined—captured a simple but powerful message: democracy depends on ordinary people choosing to show up.