Santa Ana, CA — On Saturday, October 18, more than 12,000 Orange County residents gathered at Centennial Park in Santa Ana to join a nationwide wave of protests opposing what organizers called Donald Trump’s “fascist power grab.” The NO KINGS demonstration was one of over 2,700 events held across all 50 states and territories, drawing millions of participants.
The event, organized by WAVE (Women for American Values and Ethics), OC Indivisible Coalition, and the 50501 Movement Orange County, blended protest with celebration. Attendees connected with dozens of local organizations focused on mutual aid, immigrant rights, climate justice, and community defense. Groups like Orange County CSO, The Harbor Institute, OCRRN, and Lucha ICE Watch chapters were joined by Sunrise Movement, Citizens’ Climate Lobby, and No Orange Heights.
The rally’s nonpartisan spirit was reflected in its diverse coalition, which included the Working Families Party, Democratic Socialists of America, Peace and Freedom Party, and various Democratic clubs. Advocates for women’s rights, gun control, economic justice, and inclusive faith communities also participated.
Speakers emphasized civic engagement, solidarity, and resistance to authoritarianism. Laura Brill of The Civics Center encouraged youth empowerment through voting. Raquel, a volunteer with 50501, called for joy and mutual aid as tools of resistance. Nancy, a registered Republican, urged respectful dialogue and media literacy. Khalid Hudson of CAIR Greater Los Angeles stressed the moral duty to speak out against injustice.
Other speakers challenged systemic inequality and called for bold reforms. Cal Saunders of Orange County DSA advocated for alternatives to capitalism. Fernando Deveras of Sana Sana Santa Ana urged grassroots organizing. Stephanie Wade of the Lavender Democrats envisioned a future with universal healthcare, climate-ready infrastructure, and strong public education.
A food and essentials drive held during the event filled a 40-foot truck with donations for local aid groups, including United Across Borders Foundation, Orange County Rapid Response Network, and El Centro Cultural de México.
Crowd size was estimated using aerial and ground photography by trained volunteers, including a licensed drone pilot.
The NO KINGS protest in Santa Ana was a powerful display of community unity, resistance, and hope — reminding attendees that democracy is not just a right, but a shared responsibility.
The NO KINGS protests have not led to direct federal policy changes, but they have had meaningful impact in several areas:
- They mobilized millions of people across the country, including over 12,000 in Santa Ana alone, showing widespread opposition to authoritarianism and executive overreach.
- They strengthened local coalitions among immigrant rights groups, climate activists, mutual aid networks, and political organizations, many of which continue to collaborate beyond the protest.
- They helped increase youth engagement, voter registration efforts, and civic education, especially through groups like The Civics Center.
- They pressured local governments to reaffirm sanctuary policies, expand legal aid, and resist federal enforcement actions.
- They raised public awareness and media attention around issues like ICE activity, wealth inequality, and climate justice.
Cow costumes, chicken outfits, and people blurring their faces. If these people are what they claim to be– the saviors of democracy– we’re doomed. What a joke.