Third ‘No Kings’ rally takes over Richmond streets to protest Trump administration

Third ‘No Kings’ rally takes over Richmond streets to protest Trump administration

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Thousands took to the streets in Richmond over the weekend to protest President Donald Trump and his administration, joining dozens of demonstrations across Virginia and a nationwide movement that has drawn millions since last summer.

Protesters gathered Saturday at Kanawha Plaza in downtown Richmond as part of the third "No Kings" rally since Trump took office. Organizers with 50501 Virginia said the event was one of more than 45 rallies held across the commonwealth to "resist the Trump regime and their attempts at fascism" through coordinated efforts with partner organizations.

"We wanted to be able to connect the community with those organizations and make a public show of the fact that we don't think anything happening is OK," said organizer Aurora Britt. "Richmond is a strong city that is prepared to resist."

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

Large crowds marched for more than a mile following the rally, holding signs calling for a general strike, Trump's impeachment and higher taxes on the wealthy. Others carried Iranian and American flags symbolizing support for a halt to U.S. and Israeli military actions in Iran.

Britt said a strike could be among the next steps. She pointed to the Jan. 23 statewide protest in Minnesota, where hundreds of businesses in the city also closed in solidarity, which led to an ICE drawdown after immigration crackdowns in the area had previously intensified.

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

(Photos: Ben Walls/8News)

"I think we're running out of alternatives," Britt said. "A general strike in this country would be revolutionary."

Richmonders have twice participated in "No Kings" rallies, held June 14 and Oct. 18 of last year. Organizers said protesters may not have to wait another 6 months for the next large-scale rally, which is already in the works.