Hundreds Rally for Democracy at No Kings Protest in Estes Park

A significant gathering took place in Estes Park, Colorado, as hundreds participated in the No Kings protest, a demonstration aimed at reaffirming democratic values and opposing authoritarianism. This event is part of a broader national movement that has seen similar protests across the United States, including numerous sites in Colorado.

Participants included a diverse mix of residents and visitors, from families to individuals in costumes braving the mountain winds. One protester, donning an inflatable orange hood, emphasized the importance of the event, stating, “If I’m going to protest in Estes Park, I might as well do it as Kenny. We’ve got to work together — there are no kings in America, or at least there shouldn’t be.”

The atmosphere during the protest was lively yet peaceful, with vehicles honking in support as attendees waved signs that read “No Kings, Protect Democracy” and “Refuse Unlawful Orders.” While some passersby expressed skepticism, there were no organized counter-protests, allowing the focus to remain on the message of the event.

Among those present were Chris and Eleanor Stewart, who traveled from Denver with their four daughters. Chris Stewart voiced concern over the regression of women’s rights, noting, “It’s sad to see women’s rights being rolled back as our daughters come of age. They have fewer rights now than we did when we were their age.” Eleanor added, “We’re here to support democracy. We want our kids to see that it’s worth showing up for.” This marked the Stewart family’s first protest together, motivated by their observations of national events over the past year.

The protest also attracted a contingent of younger locals, including climbers and freelance outdoor journalists. One participant, a journalist focused on climbing and conservation, remarked, “Journalism matters,” stressing the significance of civic engagement in the current climate. Another attendee pointed out the struggles of friends who work as federal employees, stating, “They’re not getting paid during the shutdown, but they’re still showing up for work. The least I could do was show up for them.”

As the event progressed, Estes Park Police maintained a light presence, contributing to the orderly nature of the protest. Participants appreciated the cooperative spirit of the town, with one individual dressed in an eagle costume exclaiming, “It’s different here. Peaceful. And with all the tourists coming through, it’s a great place to get maximum exposure for the movement.”

Historical references were also woven into the day’s message. One protester carried a sign honoring Captain Silas Soule and Lieutenant Joseph Cramer, military officers known for defying unethical commands. “They followed conscience over command,” he explained. “That’s what this moment feels like — a test of conscience. When power starts demanding immoral things, it comes down to the individual to refuse.”

As the afternoon wore on, light snow flurries began to swirl through the air, and the crowd gradually thinned. Although the protest did not match the scale of larger rallies in cities like Denver or Fort Collins, it represented a remarkable demonstration of civic engagement for a town nestled against the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park.

The No Kings protest highlighted the ongoing commitment of citizens to uphold democratic principles and the importance of active participation in shaping the future of their communities.