(WKBN) — Many gathered across the Valley on Saturday to join a nationwide “No Kings” protest against the Trump administration.
Hundreds of people took part in the protest Saturday morning in Warren, all lined around Courthouse Square. Protestors say they want to protect the rights of citizens and that they believe authoritarian policies are being implemented.
“We’re not happy with it. So, we’re letting people know. The more voices rise up, the better,” said organizer Gary Tuttle.
People of all ages took part in the demonstrations. Organizers say they are amazed to see so much activism among younger generations.
“We even see little kids here, and they’re enjoying it. They’re learning how to express themselves. They’re learning how to stand up for themselves,” Tuttle said.
Protestors say they’re fighting against fascism and a government that isn’t representing them. They said they have not been paid to protest.
Many defended the country during war, including in Vietnam and Iraq.
“We’re looking back to wanting an America that we can all be proud of. I took an oath twice to the Constitution to defend my country, the same oath our elected legislators took. I don’t see them doing what I did,” said protestor Joe Pecorelli.
Hundreds more lined up and down Market Street in Youngstown in front of the Mahoning County Courthouse. Protestors there said they disagree with more foreign wars and that they have concerns about the increased military presence in Venezuela.
“We go to Iraq under false pretenses, where I served. Then, we go and fail in Afghanistan. How many more foreign wars are we, the people, going to put up with in this country before we just say, ‘No, no more?'” said retired Lt. Col. Malcolm Ritchie.
Organizers say the protests aren’t about hate but about a love for their rights and the United States.
“We don’t hate America. The GOP keeps telling everybody that we do. We’re out here because we’re trying to protect democracy. That’s what we’re here for,” said Dirk Hermance with the Mahoning Valley Freedom Fighters.
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