Thousands gather in Oklahoma City for 'No Kings' protest
OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Thousands of Oklahomans gathered in Oklahoma City on Saturday morning as part of the national 'No Kings' protest march and rally.
More than 1,500 cities and millions of people across the United States planned to protest on Saturday. Thousands came together at 9 a.m. in Oklahoma City, gathering at Oklahoma City Boulevard and Hudson Avenue, and marching to Bicentennial Park.
According to the 'No Kings' website, the nationwide protest is to "reject authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics, and the militarization of our democracy."
A permit for the event, shared with News 4, lists the event as a political march with a rally planned to be held in front of Oklahoma City Hall, featuring music and speakers. It also said that protestors would stay on sidewalks and crosswalks, and would not block doorways, entrances, or exits.
News 4 spoke to organizers with Indivisible Oklahoma on Friday, who committed to a non-violent protest event.
"We're not willing to jeopardize people's safety and security," said Nina Lawrence, with Indivisible Oklahoma.
While a police presence was there, it was just enough to make sure the protest went as peacefully as promised.
Earlier this week, on Tuesday, Governor Kevin Stitt shared in a social media post that his office, including state troopers, were aware of the protests being planned in Oklahoma, stating that peaceful assembly is allowed, but also went a step further to get his point across by saying, "We'll quickly stop any violence or lawlessness. State troopers stand ready to assist local law enforcement in protecting our streets. Law and order will be upheld."
In Saturday morning's rally, protestors told News 4 one of the main issues they're against, is President Trump's stance on immigration, given the recent deportations taking place.
"Deporting people without habeas corpus? I mean, that is so huge. Constitutional right to a fair trial is being infringed. We can't stand for that," said Tim Rice.
Another mother and protestor said she fears for the future of democracy and human rights.
"We have no kings. This is what this country is founded on. We're founded on the idea that we, the people, we govern. We put these people in office, we're not being heard. They're completely ignoring everything," said Sara Leahy.
Despite the crowd being packed with protestors against the current administration, one Trump supporter showed up to defend the policies.
"President Trump is doing exactly what he said he would do, stopping the illegal immigration, David Moore said."
Moore also added, "I would say if you don't love this country, leave it. Love it or leave it."
The protest ended around 11:00 Saturday morning and remained peaceful.