Several hundred people gathered at Turley Park Saturday morning, many arriving early with handmade signs and determined faces ready to stand together.
The Carbondale protest was part of a broader series of No Kings demonstrations held across the country. The March 28 protest marked the third coordinated protest focused on expressing opposition to current government policies and actions, with a flagship rally held in Minneapolis.
Kevin Garthe, who is a participant in Carbondale’s “Signs of the Times,” a recurring roadside demonstration where residents hold visible but premade protest signs, said the group tries to keep messaging “not inflammatory.”
Advertisement
“I’m here because every American should be here today,” Garthe said. “We are on a slippery slope. It’s important people recognize what fascism is. We’re checking all the boxes.”
Demonstrators brought their own messages and reasons for participating, creating a range of perspectives throughout the event.
“This is my second No Kings pretest and uh yeah definitely anti-Trump,” said 70-year-old Mel Tate, explaining why she was there as the crowds started to chant.
The demonstration remained peaceful, with participants moving from the pavilion through the park waving signs and chanting.
Staff Photographer Amilia Estrada can be reached at [email protected]
Advertisement*
Advertisement
