RAPID CITY, S.D. – On Saturday, June 14, Rapid City, Spearfish, Pierre, Chamberlain, Aberdeen, Watertown, Brookings, Yankton and Sioux Falls joined millions of people in more than 1,800 demonstrations across all 50 states and U.S. territories in a historic, nationwide mobilization against authoritarianism.
Organizers estimate that 800 to 1,000 people gathered at Founders Park in Rapid Cityfor the local “No Kings” rally, held from 1:30 to 3:30 PM. The exact number is difficult to determine due to the flow of people arriving and leaving throughout the rally, but it was one of the largest West River protests in recent years. Estimates for participation in the Spearfish rally were also 500-800 people. The events brought together a diverse and determined crowd united against authoritarianism, the erosion of democracy, and attacks on essential programs.
“This movement isn’t about a single person or protest, it’s about building something lasting,” said one 50501 South Dakota volunteer. “We show up with compassion, with community, with purpose. That’s how we protect each other and fight for the future.”
Throughout the park, handmade signs, bold protest art, and a wave of flags filled the air—American flags, Ukrainian flags, and more—all flying together beneath the banner of “No Kings.”
The protest served as a direct response to the corruption and destruction wrought by the Trump administration—especially Trump’s militarized birthday celebration in Washington, D.C., which was originally planned to honor the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Instead, it was twisted into a costly display of personal glorification, even as Trump pushes to defund vital programs like SNAP, Medicare, and Social Security while cutting staff and programs in the Veterans Administration.
“We gathered today at Founders Park to stand united against the rise of authoritarianism and the erosion of our rights,” said Airicka, an organizer for the Rapid City event. “We need all of us in this fight because our democracy is worth defending. Our movement is grounded in nonviolent protest. We show up with courage and compassion to make our voices heard.”
Despite the intense heat, the event remained peaceful and focused. Volunteers provided water, support, and aid, with street medics on site. There were a couple of heat-related incidents, including one person transported to the emergency room who was later discharged and is recovering at home.
The Founders Park No Kings rally was entirely grassroots and volunteer-led as part of a nationwide mobilization called the “No Kings National Day of Action.” The Rapid City protest was organized locally by 50501 South Dakota, in partnership with the national 50501 Movement and the No Kings Coalition.
