More photos from Auburn ‘No Kings’ protest

Event took place June 14 in cities across the nation.

By Mariah Hill, For the Reporter • June 20, 2025 2:40 pm

Nearly 1,000 people filled the sidewalks of 15th Street NE and Harvey Road near Auburn Way as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protests held June 14. The “No Kings” movement is a response to the perceived authoritarian tendencies of the Trump administration, according to organizers.

The event was organized by the Auburn Indivisible Group. With the group only beginning in April 2025, founder Vicki Bates said this is a way to not only peacefully protest, but speak out.

“We don’t want an authoritarian government,” she said. “We want a secure future for our kids and grandkids and that’s in, you know, communities that aren’t struck with this chaos, that’s happening right now.”

People of all ages and cultures hit the streets chanting, holding picket signs, and singing in their native language. Cars also drove past honking to show support for those protesting. One resident named Makayla Heaps-Smith is half Lebanese, considered an Arab country. She said this protest hits home for her family.

“If not now then when,” said Heaps-Smith. “They’re raiding kids in elementary schools … at kindergarten graduations … we got to keep fighting. We can’t just stand down.”

This rally was one of many happening across Washington state. One attendee traveled from Renton with his granddaughter to show their support.

“I’m 81 years old,” said Bruce Hanson. “I just wanted to get out and show a presence that I’ve objected to what Donald Trump’s been doing for basically the last 12 years. So if you don’t say something, nothing’s going to change.”

Hanson’s granddaughter Janessa is 21 years old. She stood beside her grandfather and a friend who is a resident of Auburn. Janessa said she won’t stop using her voice until there is progress being made.

“I’ll probably be the same age as my grandfather still doing this stuff,” said the 21-year-old. “I think it’s important to be an example … to show younger people, like, hey, you should be getting out here and speaking up against this, and I think that sometimes younger people see what’s going on and kind of are like, well we’re screwed, what’s the point of me saying anything?”

People in Auburn community who are interested in other events hosted by the Indivisible Group can contact indivisibleauburnwa@gmail.com.