Ohio
‘No Kings’ protests planned in Columbus, other central Ohio cities
‘No Kings’ protests return to Ohio, condemning Trump’s policies
Nationwide “No Kings” protests took place on Oct. 18. Hundreds of demonstrators participated in protests in Columbus area.
- A nationwide “No Kings” protest is scheduled for March 28. In Columbus, demonstrators will gather at the Ohio Statehouse.
- Organizers are protesting what they describe as government overreach and authoritarian actions by the Trump administration.
- In addition to the main rally, smaller events are planned throughout central Ohio on the same day.
A nationwide protest is set to return this weekend, with a “No Kings” demonstration planned at the Ohio Statehouse in downtown Columbus as well as in other area communities.
The Downtown event is part of a coordinated day of action expected to include hundreds, and potentially thousands, of gatherings across the country on March 28.
Mia Lewis, a volunteer with Indivisible Central Ohio and associate director of Common Cause Ohio, said the protest aims to bring together people concerned about federal policy and government overreach.
“We’re fed up with the Trump administration and their overreach,” Lewis said. “We’re taking a stand against illegal wars, injustice and power corruption.”
When and where is the Columbus protest?
The Columbus event is scheduled for 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. March 28 at the Ohio Statehouse, according to event organizers.
Participants are expected to gather near the William McKinley Monument before a rally and march through Downtown.
The protest is being organized locally by Indivisible Central Ohio, alongside partners including Common Cause Ohio, ACLU of Ohio and Columbus 50501.
Central Ohio events planned throughout the day
In addition to the Statehouse rally, there are three other rallies planned in Columbus, including at Easton, in German Village, and a senior-focused gathering scheduled from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. near Neil Avenue and Goodale Boulevard.
Other rallies are scheduled in more than 15 other cities throughout central Ohio. Those interested can visit nokings.org to view a map of events in their region.
What is the ‘No Kings’ movement?
The “No Kings” movement is a nationwide organizing effort that opposes what organizers describe as authoritarian actions by President Donald Trump and his administration.
According to organizers, more than 1,000 events have already been planned across the country for March 28, with thousands more expected.
“I have noticed that most people are unhappy with the Trump administration and they want to see change,” Lewis said.
Organizers say millions of people participated in similar protests last year.
What to expect from ‘No Kings’ events
Organizers say the demonstrations are intended to push back against federal policies and actions they oppose, while also encouraging civic engagement and nonviolent protest.
The coalition has hosted training sessions ahead of the March events aimed at educating participants about their rights and how to safely observe federal enforcement activity.
Organizers estimate attendance at the Statehouse event could exceed 15,000 people, potentially making it one of the largest protests in the city’s history.
The event is expected to include speakers such as state Rep. Munira Abdullahi, D-Columbus; retired Maj. Gen. Dennis Laich and representatives from advocacy groups. Organizers said attendees are encouraged to bring signs and messages important to them.
“Everyone is welcome,” Lewis said.
Trending reporter Amani Bayo can be reached at abayo@dispatch.com.