Protests are planned Saturday in towns across Western North Carolina as part of the “No Kings" protest.
The theme was created by the 50501 Movement — which, according to the Associated Press, describes itself as a national campaign made up of “everyday Americans who stand for democracy and against what they call the authoritarian actions of the Trump administration.” The group’s name stands for 50 states, 50 protests, one movement.
Asheville, Bryson City, Waynesville, and Hayesville are among the towns where demonstrations are planned.
Misinformation and concerns about potential violence have circulated ahead of the protests, prompting some local law enforcement agencies to respond. In Clay County, the sheriff’s office posted on Facebook that organizers have been coordinating with police.
“Past peaceful demonstrations have resulted in no violations of law, no property damage, and no arrests. We do not anticipate any problems with the scheduled events Saturday at either demonstration,” the office wrote.
In Haywood County, a protest won’t be the only event happening on Saturday. While the local Indivisible chapter Hands Off Haywood is organizing a “No Kings” demonstration in Waynesville, the Republican Party is holding a separate “Spirit of America” celebration in nearby Maggie Valley, the Mountaineer reported.
These protests come during continued protests against federal immigration raids across the country. In Asheville there is a separate protest following “No Kings Day” centered on immigration in the evening.
