By Ike Hall, Contributing Writer
On October 18th, Voice & Viewpoint attended the “NO KINGS” March, a peaceful protest organized to stand united for democracy and Donald Trump’s threats to it. Beginning at Waterfront Park in downtown San Diego, a sea of people marched, chanted, and sang down the Embarcadero.
The demonstration continued a year-long series of large non-violent, pro-democracy gatherings across the nation. Previous marches have drawn significant crowds, with more than 80,000 people taking to the streets on June 14th. This past Saturday was no different, with an estimated 82,289 thousand San Diegans coming together to uphold democratic values and reject Donald Trump’s authoritarian takeover.
The event was organized by a broad range of civil advocacy groups, including the San Diego and Imperial Counties Labor Council and Activist San Diego. The “NO KINGS” shared goal is to “bring San Diegans from all walks of life together, peacefully and powerfully.” While Black participation appeared limited in the downtown location, those who attended voiced the importance of solidarity in today’s political climate.
One African American San Diegan,, age 57, who asked to remain anonymous, described himself as a Democrat who still holds some conservative views. “I used to consider every Republican candidate,” he said. “But what is going on today is disgraceful.” He spoke about the need for older generations of Black voters to “get past the color of it” and focus on uniting with others who believe in equal opportunity and the American dream.
Michael (73) and Valerie (71) Bento, also African American, said they joined the march because it is important in the current rising fascism, authoritarianism, and hatred against immigrants. Having lived in San Diego since 1971, they reflected on the city’s evolving demographics and political identity. “The politics here have changed with the influx of Black and Brown people. Long gone are the days of Roger Hedgcock and Pete Wilson. But a strong conservative lean remains.”
Citing the now-defunct Catfish Club, a Black business organization once led by Reverend Smith, Mr. Bento expressed concern about the decline of civic unity. “The powers that be have done a lot to divide and dissipate Black power in the city,” he said. “And to some extent, it’s worked, since organizations like the Catfish Club are no longer around.”
Though the protest ended without incident, a weary uncertainty lingered in the air. As the nation stares into its reflection, we’re asked to confront the shadows hidden by political optics. The same colonial and imperial roots that continue to shape the story of our democracy.