Great Bend and Larned were among the more than 3,000 cities across the United States where No Kings rallies took place on Saturday. Demonstrators protested against President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies.

Pam Martin with the Barton County chapter of Women for Kansas said Saturday’s No Kings - Pro Democracy rally in Great Bend’s courthouse square was attended by 172 people. The rally was sponsored by Women for Kansas and Barton County’s League of Women Voters chapter, both non-partisan groups.

There were speeches, songs and a march around the square with signs for about 90 minutes. Great Bend Police officers watched the peaceful gathering. 

Martin introduced speakers and read the Constitutional Amendments related to each topic.

Brandon Steinert talked about freedom of the press and restrictions being made on the same (First Amendment).

Jan Stice talked about voter suppression and why our U.S. Senators should vote “no” to the SAVE Act (15th and 19th Amendments).

Information shared on the SAVE Act notes that non-citizens already cannot vote. This act that would require documented proof of citizenship for voting in federal elections could deprive 21 million citizens of their right to vote, according to the Brennan Center for Justice.

Stephanie Pfannenstiel spoke about executive overreach and due process for all citizens (14th Amendment). 

“The only power elected officials have is what we allow them,” Phanenstiel said.

“Congress needs to do their job,” Martin said. “It’s going to take us raising our voices; they have to know that we are not happy with them.”

A protest song was sung to the tune of “God Bless the USA,” with the words, “You sold the USA.”

Protesters chanted “We the people hold the power;” “People united will never be divided;” and “Democracy is under attack. What do we do? Stand up, fight back.”

The Great Bend Tribune posted photos on its website and social media that were viewed 45,000 times, with 1,200 reactions and 600 comments over the weekend, both for and against.