TUPELO, Mississippi — Around 400 residents gathered outside Senator Trent Kelly’s office in Tupelo on Saturday as part of the nationwide “No Kings” protest. This event was one of many held across the United States, with organizers estimating nearly 8 million participants nationwide.
The local protest, coordinated by Indivisible of Northeast Mississippi, aimed to push back against the Trump Administration’s policies on immigration, civil rights, and government accountability. Protesters carried both handmade and printed signs, many offering sharp critiques of President Donald Trump and his administration’s decisions.
A Call for Justice and Democracy
Shawn Brevard, one of the event’s local organizers and community advocates, said the rally gave citizens a chance to practice free speech and hold leaders accountable.
“I love my country with all its flaws,” Brevard said. “I trust a loving God, and I believe in the commandment to love thy neighbor. My neighbor is every one of you—there are no second-class citizens.”
The protest emphasized unity, compassion, and equality, encouraging attendees to remind lawmakers that freedom of expression and inclusion are at the heart of American values.
Standing Up Against Government Overreach
The demonstration’s purpose extended beyond criticism—it served as a peaceful push for change. Participants urged both local representatives and federal officials to reconsider what they view as serious government overreach, including mass deportations, detentions of immigrants, and the weakening of federal safety nets for vulnerable Americans.
While similar protests across the country have occasionally been portrayed as aggressive, the Tupelo group made sure their gathering remained peaceful and creative. Many participants wore inflatable costumes, a symbolic gesture started during Portland’s protests against the federal deployment of the National Guard, reflecting humor and resilience in activism.
History of Civic Action in Tupelo
This marked the second “No Kings” protest outside Sen. Kelly’s office, following a previous demonstration held in the spring. The recurring events highlight a growing movement in Mississippi, where residents are increasingly stepping forward to defend democracy and resist authoritarian trends.
Teresa Roberts, another organizer from Indivisible, expressed that the protest symbolized a fight for justice, equality, and democratic integrity.
“We want to send a message to this administration that we, the people, will stand for justice, rights, and the benefits that all Americans deserve,” Roberts said. “These actions by the administration do not reflect democracy. People come to this country seeking freedom.”
