No need to apologize for not having marched or rallied before, Nancy. You did it this time, and this time couldn't be more important. Our numbers were so huge they couldn't be ignored, even by the press. We did what we'd set out to do and I'm hoping this won't be the end of it.
Saturday protests need to become a common practice for those of us out there trying to save the country we love from a bunch of worthless goons who think they'll get to own it all. They won't.
My own experience, in my relatively small town in a deep red county in Upper Michigan, was amazing. The crowd kept growing and growing and growing, and with each new band of arrivals my energy grew, as well, until it was through the roof! I had come off of a week-long retreat and, driving home on Friday, I was exhausted. I wondered if I would have the stamina for another long day standing, marching, yelling. Not that I would have missed it, but I doubted I would last for even an hour. Ha! I don't think I've come down yet.
We need this sort of validation. We need to know we're not alone. We need to understand that it is, in fact, we the people, and our job as citizens is to keep our country strong against all enemies. We're in the hands of the enemy now, and we know it. We proved we know it. Now we work harder to take them down, and we'll do it with People Power. That's what Saturday's turnout showed us. 💙
The numbers were impressive indeed. I'm so inspired by how many folks turned out and did so peacefully, for the most part anyway. My emotions were all over the place after I heard the disturbing news about the MN assassinations, and I seriously considered staying home.
Like you, I also live in a relatively small community in a very red county in WI. There's still a Trump sign or two hanging up on my street. But this rally wasn't even really about Trump. Not for me anyway. It went deeper than that. The best thing about the rally was getting that validation. Such a good reminder for me as that's what I always try to offer readers, regardless of topic. Interestingly, I've lost a number of subscribers today. So, to them, I guess my validation doesn't matter??
I'm so inspired by your relentless passion and writing about the state of our democracy. My confidence in American citizens has been restored a little bit anyway. And that is no small thing.
Thank you for reading, commenting and restacking, too. I appreciate you!
Yes. Yes. Yes. A line has been crossed. All people are worth standing up for I would consider myself a peaceful warrior and I also feel there is a place to utilize rage as fuel for transformation on the inside and the outside.
So many lines have been crossed. You're right. All people are worth standing up for, for sure. Diversity is something America has always stood for and deeply valued. I still believe the majority of us continue to feel this way. That ideal was part of what was on display on No Kings Day.
Thank you for taking on the label of peaceful warrior. Of course, the minute our paths crossed, I knew you've always been one. Thank you for reading and adding to this discussion. I appreciate you. xx
Warrior woman you! And such passion, which is a sign you were in the right place at the right moment. I'm hoping we continue to make our voices heard in this way for as long as it takes. I stand in solidarity with you, and all those peaceful warriors who love our constitution and our democracy. I'm proud to be your friend and have you as mine. Let's keep inspiring each other to take action where and how we can.
I did feel like I was in the right place in that moment, that day. No doubt about it, we will continue to make our voices heard. We will not be silenced.
I am proud to call you my friend, too. Thank you for always inspiring me with your powerful writings. I appreciate you. Onward, right?
Good for you. I did not march last Saturday -- foot surgery a few days before preventing me from participating, but I was there in spirit. We are a small, primarily red town in northern MI, but people showed up in droves according to reports I've read.
It is certainly understandable that you couldn't participate in this particular rally. Not in person anyway. Being there in spirit matters a great deal too! Small, primarily red community here, too. We actually drove to a neighboring larger community - still small by most standards. I'm so glad the turnout was as good as it was across the whole country. Gives me hope.
Thank you for reading and commenting. I appreciate you. Sending healing wishes your way. Take care of yourself, my friend.
I wasn’t able to make it to the protests on Saturday due to another much earlier commitment. I’ve been to other protests and glad I went even though it’s hard for me (crowd phobia since I was a child). I’m so glad so many, many people were out there!! It’s so important to show ourselves and make our voices heard! We will prevail! (PS- I was in elementary school when JFK was shot and I remember being sent home that day and the shock and sadness around me.)
I hear you on that crowd phobia. Support comes in many forms. So, rest assured I'm feeling your support right here.
I'm thrilled the turnout was so good, too, but of course, the real work continues. And yes, that day JFK was assassinated will live forever in my mind. Such a horrific time. And unbelievably sad. I can't remember what my parents said to me about it. I have a feeling no words, or not that many, were needed. The images we saw unfold on TV said it all.
Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts. I appreciate you.
Wow, Nancy! What a powerful, unflinching post! Thank you so much for offering your honesty, experiences and your country's history so openly. What a very long list of violent acts during your lifetime. Your voice, even in its vulnerability, stands steady and fierce and I’m so deeply moved by your courage to show up, to speak and to keep choosing hope. Every. Single. Time. You're not alone in this peaceful warrior-ness and your words matter, deeply. Sending love, light and hope across the oceans between us.
Yes, when I wrote this essay, it startled me a little realizing all the violence I've been exposed to over the years - historically speaking.
Thank you for your kind, generous words. I love knowing you're over there across the ocean. Hopefully, folks from other countries realize all Americans are not on board with the shenanigans of the present administration. I will keep choosing hope. Please know how much your support means - and not just to me.
I appreciate you and thank you for restacking, too. xx
Nancy, I, too, grew up in a time of political violence (in Ireland) and reading your words brought back that sickening sense of unease of watching events unfold that you feel powerless to stop but deeply impacted by. Thank you for the reminder that peaceful presence is a form of protest and that bearing witness matters deeply.
I love this Nancy! I attended all three rallies this year in a very red county in WI. I never envisioned doing such a thing, but then again, I never envisioned our country being where it is right now. I'm proud I've stood up to be counted! I absolutely believe it matters!!
Wow, you attended three rallies this year, good for you! Nice to 'meet' another Wisconsinite. I never thought our country would be where it is right now either.
Thank you for standing up to be counted. Thank you for reading and commenting, too. I appreciate you.
Good for you for protesting! It takes such courage to get out there and protest, especially since the MAGA nuts can hurt or kill protesters. Your fears, like my fears, are reasonable. And I was devastated to hear about the assassinations in Minnesota. We live in scary times, where anything outlandish can happen. And, yes, our country has always been violent.
I participated. We live in a blue state, but there are a lot of red-supporting folks here, nonetheless. Anyway, it feels good to be part of a supportive crowd (I tend to hate crowds, too, but this was so important). Yes, the administration has crossed a line -- many lines, as you point out -- but this protest was vital, and I was encouraged to see/hear about such a turnout.
There is an element of fear with such participation, and unfortunately, fascist leaders use such fear to prey upon their citizens. So good for you and your husband for showing up.
By the way, I love the picture of you with the sign! Great photo!
I want to show my daughter how protests happen in the U.S., but I'm keeping her away for her own safety. She is a legal citizen, but diversity is not looked upon positively in our culture right now. I worry so much about her.
A wonderful post, and yes, you are a peaceful warrior. I'm going to share this important essay.
Fear is a reasonable emotion in a time like this. However, we can't let fear inhibit our choices to do what we want to do and what we feel is right, including participating in a protest. Working to keep our democracy is worth taking some risk. I don't feel like I'm taking much of one when I think what so many others have sacrificed - including the MN couple that was fatally shot and the other that was seriously wounded.
I understand your hesitation to have your daughter involved. I would worry about her safety, too. Diversity is such an American ideal we need to keep holding dear. We need to fight for that too.
Thank you for being a peaceful warrior right there with me. And thank you for reading my essay, commenting on it, and sharing it too. I appreciate you, my friend.
So happy to know you were also at a No Kings march and rally, speaking out peacefully for democracy, our constitution and our American values. We need to keep showing up!
Nancy, my first rally/protest--as an adult, as my parents had my march with them to protest Vietnam War--was April--"Hands Off" and it was so affirming.
Our No Kings event was cold, rainy and relatively small as another event was very close by (I heard that one was almost too crowded).
Attending protests feels obligatory at this point as I feel I need to do something in these horrible times.
I've seen this quote going around--from over a century ago--and it resonates: “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
I somehow missed that "Hand Off" one. I suspect I was traveling. That's one of the most important things about these rallies - they are so affirming. Validation is something I'm always talking about in my writing. Attending the No Kings Day rally sure reaffirmed the importance of validation.
So many of us are feeling as you do - that we need to do something. Sometimes, it can be as simple as starting a conversation, listening to someone else, sharing a piece of writing that moves you, participating in a protest, and of course voting.
Thank you for continuing to support my writing and thank you for sharing that quote. So inspiring. I appreciate you.
Hello fellow Americans. We estimated our crowd at Saturday's New Ulm No Kings rally at about 500, many of whom were late arriving because of the confusion caused by the shooting of my MN state representatives, thus it could have been larger. I carried my US Navy veteran father's US flag that he proudly flew on his front porch for important holidays and festivals. My next protest sign may read: "My father fought fascism, so can I".
500 seems like a really good turnout. It was great to see media coverage of huge crowds in Chicago and Philly, for example. But the smaller, yet big in their own way crowds, in red states were equally impressive, as far as I'm concerned.
I think you're right that many people in MN were confused as to what to do following the horrendous shooting and being told to not attend. I hesitated, too, and I don't even live in MN. I'm glad you carried that flag, and it sounds like you're ready for the next protest. That'd be a perfect thing to say on your sign.
Thank you for reading, taking time to comment, and sharing my essay wherever you see fit. And, of course, thank you for protesting. I appreciate you.
No need to apologize for not having marched or rallied before, Nancy. You did it this time, and this time couldn't be more important. Our numbers were so huge they couldn't be ignored, even by the press. We did what we'd set out to do and I'm hoping this won't be the end of it.
Saturday protests need to become a common practice for those of us out there trying to save the country we love from a bunch of worthless goons who think they'll get to own it all. They won't.
My own experience, in my relatively small town in a deep red county in Upper Michigan, was amazing. The crowd kept growing and growing and growing, and with each new band of arrivals my energy grew, as well, until it was through the roof! I had come off of a week-long retreat and, driving home on Friday, I was exhausted. I wondered if I would have the stamina for another long day standing, marching, yelling. Not that I would have missed it, but I doubted I would last for even an hour. Ha! I don't think I've come down yet.
We need this sort of validation. We need to know we're not alone. We need to understand that it is, in fact, we the people, and our job as citizens is to keep our country strong against all enemies. We're in the hands of the enemy now, and we know it. We proved we know it. Now we work harder to take them down, and we'll do it with People Power. That's what Saturday's turnout showed us. 💙
Hi Ramona,
The numbers were impressive indeed. I'm so inspired by how many folks turned out and did so peacefully, for the most part anyway. My emotions were all over the place after I heard the disturbing news about the MN assassinations, and I seriously considered staying home.
Like you, I also live in a relatively small community in a very red county in WI. There's still a Trump sign or two hanging up on my street. But this rally wasn't even really about Trump. Not for me anyway. It went deeper than that. The best thing about the rally was getting that validation. Such a good reminder for me as that's what I always try to offer readers, regardless of topic. Interestingly, I've lost a number of subscribers today. So, to them, I guess my validation doesn't matter??
I'm so inspired by your relentless passion and writing about the state of our democracy. My confidence in American citizens has been restored a little bit anyway. And that is no small thing.
Thank you for reading, commenting and restacking, too. I appreciate you!
Yes. Yes. Yes. A line has been crossed. All people are worth standing up for I would consider myself a peaceful warrior and I also feel there is a place to utilize rage as fuel for transformation on the inside and the outside.
Excellent essay
Thank you, Nancy!
Hi Prajna,
So many lines have been crossed. You're right. All people are worth standing up for, for sure. Diversity is something America has always stood for and deeply valued. I still believe the majority of us continue to feel this way. That ideal was part of what was on display on No Kings Day.
Thank you for taking on the label of peaceful warrior. Of course, the minute our paths crossed, I knew you've always been one. Thank you for reading and adding to this discussion. I appreciate you. xx
Hey Nancy, of course, we are walking shoulder to shoulder, heart to heart. Rest well as there is much more to come.
Warrior woman you! And such passion, which is a sign you were in the right place at the right moment. I'm hoping we continue to make our voices heard in this way for as long as it takes. I stand in solidarity with you, and all those peaceful warriors who love our constitution and our democracy. I'm proud to be your friend and have you as mine. Let's keep inspiring each other to take action where and how we can.
HI Stephanie,
I did feel like I was in the right place in that moment, that day. No doubt about it, we will continue to make our voices heard. We will not be silenced.
I am proud to call you my friend, too. Thank you for always inspiring me with your powerful writings. I appreciate you. Onward, right?
Onward! and Write on!
Yes!
Good for you. I did not march last Saturday -- foot surgery a few days before preventing me from participating, but I was there in spirit. We are a small, primarily red town in northern MI, but people showed up in droves according to reports I've read.
Hi Nancy,
It is certainly understandable that you couldn't participate in this particular rally. Not in person anyway. Being there in spirit matters a great deal too! Small, primarily red community here, too. We actually drove to a neighboring larger community - still small by most standards. I'm so glad the turnout was as good as it was across the whole country. Gives me hope.
Thank you for reading and commenting. I appreciate you. Sending healing wishes your way. Take care of yourself, my friend.
I wasn’t able to make it to the protests on Saturday due to another much earlier commitment. I’ve been to other protests and glad I went even though it’s hard for me (crowd phobia since I was a child). I’m so glad so many, many people were out there!! It’s so important to show ourselves and make our voices heard! We will prevail! (PS- I was in elementary school when JFK was shot and I remember being sent home that day and the shock and sadness around me.)
Hi Susan,
I hear you on that crowd phobia. Support comes in many forms. So, rest assured I'm feeling your support right here.
I'm thrilled the turnout was so good, too, but of course, the real work continues. And yes, that day JFK was assassinated will live forever in my mind. Such a horrific time. And unbelievably sad. I can't remember what my parents said to me about it. I have a feeling no words, or not that many, were needed. The images we saw unfold on TV said it all.
Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts. I appreciate you.
Wow, Nancy! What a powerful, unflinching post! Thank you so much for offering your honesty, experiences and your country's history so openly. What a very long list of violent acts during your lifetime. Your voice, even in its vulnerability, stands steady and fierce and I’m so deeply moved by your courage to show up, to speak and to keep choosing hope. Every. Single. Time. You're not alone in this peaceful warrior-ness and your words matter, deeply. Sending love, light and hope across the oceans between us.
Hi Deborah,
Yes, when I wrote this essay, it startled me a little realizing all the violence I've been exposed to over the years - historically speaking.
Thank you for your kind, generous words. I love knowing you're over there across the ocean. Hopefully, folks from other countries realize all Americans are not on board with the shenanigans of the present administration. I will keep choosing hope. Please know how much your support means - and not just to me.
I appreciate you and thank you for restacking, too. xx
Nancy, I, too, grew up in a time of political violence (in Ireland) and reading your words brought back that sickening sense of unease of watching events unfold that you feel powerless to stop but deeply impacted by. Thank you for the reminder that peaceful presence is a form of protest and that bearing witness matters deeply.
I love this Nancy! I attended all three rallies this year in a very red county in WI. I never envisioned doing such a thing, but then again, I never envisioned our country being where it is right now. I'm proud I've stood up to be counted! I absolutely believe it matters!!
Hi Nancy A
Wow, you attended three rallies this year, good for you! Nice to 'meet' another Wisconsinite. I never thought our country would be where it is right now either.
Thank you for standing up to be counted. Thank you for reading and commenting, too. I appreciate you.
Hi Nancy,
Good for you for protesting! It takes such courage to get out there and protest, especially since the MAGA nuts can hurt or kill protesters. Your fears, like my fears, are reasonable. And I was devastated to hear about the assassinations in Minnesota. We live in scary times, where anything outlandish can happen. And, yes, our country has always been violent.
I participated. We live in a blue state, but there are a lot of red-supporting folks here, nonetheless. Anyway, it feels good to be part of a supportive crowd (I tend to hate crowds, too, but this was so important). Yes, the administration has crossed a line -- many lines, as you point out -- but this protest was vital, and I was encouraged to see/hear about such a turnout.
There is an element of fear with such participation, and unfortunately, fascist leaders use such fear to prey upon their citizens. So good for you and your husband for showing up.
By the way, I love the picture of you with the sign! Great photo!
I want to show my daughter how protests happen in the U.S., but I'm keeping her away for her own safety. She is a legal citizen, but diversity is not looked upon positively in our culture right now. I worry so much about her.
A wonderful post, and yes, you are a peaceful warrior. I'm going to share this important essay.
Hi Beth
Fear is a reasonable emotion in a time like this. However, we can't let fear inhibit our choices to do what we want to do and what we feel is right, including participating in a protest. Working to keep our democracy is worth taking some risk. I don't feel like I'm taking much of one when I think what so many others have sacrificed - including the MN couple that was fatally shot and the other that was seriously wounded.
I understand your hesitation to have your daughter involved. I would worry about her safety, too. Diversity is such an American ideal we need to keep holding dear. We need to fight for that too.
Thank you for being a peaceful warrior right there with me. And thank you for reading my essay, commenting on it, and sharing it too. I appreciate you, my friend.
So happy to know you were also at a No Kings march and rally, speaking out peacefully for democracy, our constitution and our American values. We need to keep showing up!
Hi Shellee,
We most certainly do! Thank you for your encouraging words and for attending a rally, too. I appreciate you.
And I appreciate you (and your helpful writing) as I have through both my first and second breast cancers, bilateral mastectomy, etc. Thank you.
Oh, thank you so much for your kind words about my writing. I hope you're doing well.
Doing well, knock wood, (except for the stresses of living in our current reality).
Glad to hear it, and yes, I know what you mean.
My favorite sign that day, ‘Born to dilly dally, forced to fight fascism’!
Hi Lessly,
Gosh, that's a new one! So many creative people out there making signs with clever sayings. As it should be in America.
Thank you for sharing. I appreciate you.
Nancy, my first rally/protest--as an adult, as my parents had my march with them to protest Vietnam War--was April--"Hands Off" and it was so affirming.
Our No Kings event was cold, rainy and relatively small as another event was very close by (I heard that one was almost too crowded).
Attending protests feels obligatory at this point as I feel I need to do something in these horrible times.
I've seen this quote going around--from over a century ago--and it resonates: “I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And because I cannot do everything, I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.”
― Edward Everett Hale
Hi Jan,
I somehow missed that "Hand Off" one. I suspect I was traveling. That's one of the most important things about these rallies - they are so affirming. Validation is something I'm always talking about in my writing. Attending the No Kings Day rally sure reaffirmed the importance of validation.
So many of us are feeling as you do - that we need to do something. Sometimes, it can be as simple as starting a conversation, listening to someone else, sharing a piece of writing that moves you, participating in a protest, and of course voting.
Thank you for continuing to support my writing and thank you for sharing that quote. So inspiring. I appreciate you.
Hello fellow Americans. We estimated our crowd at Saturday's New Ulm No Kings rally at about 500, many of whom were late arriving because of the confusion caused by the shooting of my MN state representatives, thus it could have been larger. I carried my US Navy veteran father's US flag that he proudly flew on his front porch for important holidays and festivals. My next protest sign may read: "My father fought fascism, so can I".
https://www.nokings.org/
Hi Mark,
500 seems like a really good turnout. It was great to see media coverage of huge crowds in Chicago and Philly, for example. But the smaller, yet big in their own way crowds, in red states were equally impressive, as far as I'm concerned.
I think you're right that many people in MN were confused as to what to do following the horrendous shooting and being told to not attend. I hesitated, too, and I don't even live in MN. I'm glad you carried that flag, and it sounds like you're ready for the next protest. That'd be a perfect thing to say on your sign.
Thank you for reading, taking time to comment, and sharing my essay wherever you see fit. And, of course, thank you for protesting. I appreciate you.