PORTLAND, Ore. — Thousands of Oregonians are expected to take to the streets this Saturday, October 18, 2025, as part of the nationwide “No Kings” movement, marking what organizers are calling the second wave of demonstrations against authoritarianism and the concentration of executive power.
The first round of protests in June drew massive crowds across the United States, including an estimated 50,000 participants in Portland, according to city officials. With new events scheduled across Oregon this weekend, organizers say the message remains the same: America has no kings — the power belongs to the people.
A Statewide Effort for Democratic Principles
The 50501 Movement, the coalition behind “No Kings,” has described its mission as promoting democratic accountability and rejecting what it sees as authoritarian practices within government. Saturday’s events will take place simultaneously in all 50 states, with Oregon playing one of the most active roles.
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In addition to Portland’s flagship march, rallies are set for communities throughout the state — from Ashland and Medford in the south to Bend, Salem, and Astoria farther north. Organizers in Grants Pass expect particularly strong turnout, as local advocacy groups and student organizations have joined the effort.
In total, roughly 30 separate gatherings are planned across the Portland metro area alone, signaling a broad, grassroots mobilization.
Peaceful, Family-Friendly Protests
Organizers continue to emphasize non-violence as a core principle of the movement. All participants are instructed to de-escalate confrontations and to avoid bringing weapons of any kind. Volunteer marshals trained in crowd safety and mediation will accompany marchers along each route.
“Our focus is unity, not chaos,” said a spokesperson for Indivisible Oregon, one of the partner organizations. “We want this to be a peaceful, family-friendly day that reminds people of their voice in democracy.”
Law enforcement agencies — including the Portland Police Bureau and Oregon State Police — have stated that while they will maintain a visible presence to ensure safety, they do not anticipate violence. In cities such as Eugene and Bend, officials have confirmed they’ve coordinated directly with protest organizers to establish clear safety measures.
What to Expect in Portland and Beyond
In Portland, the main march will begin at Pioneer Courthouse Square before winding through downtown streets toward the Waterfront Park, where speeches, live music, and community art installations will take place.
In Salem, demonstrators plan to gather at the Capitol Mall for a full-day program featuring voter-registration drives, student speakers, and performances by local musicians. Across the state, rallies will also be held in public parks, on college campuses, and outside government buildings, creating opportunities for Oregonians of all ages to participate.
“The point is to show that civic engagement isn’t about confrontation,” said Medford organizer Lily Navarro. “It’s about reminding our government — and ourselves — that democracy depends on active, peaceful participation.”
A Broader Message
The phrase “No Kings” has become a rallying cry for those concerned about the erosion of democratic checks and balances. By invoking the nation’s founding rejection of monarchy, the movement aims to unite Americans across political divides under a common ideal: no single person should hold unchecked power.
While some national leaders have criticized the protests as partisan, organizers argue that their efforts transcend party lines. “This isn’t about left or right,” Navarro added. “It’s about reaffirming the Constitution and protecting the freedoms that define us as a country.”
Oregon’s Role in a National Wave
As part of the nationwide series of events, Oregon’s participation is expected to serve as one of the most visible examples of peaceful civic action. The state’s long history of activism — from environmental advocacy to civil rights demonstrations — continues to shape its identity as a hub for organized, people-powered movements.
With legal challenges still underway over federal authority to deploy troops in protest zones, many see this weekend’s demonstrations as both a statement of defiance and a celebration of democracy.
Across Oregon, the message remains consistent and clear: citizens, not kings, hold the power — and they intend to use it peacefully.
