We recorded this pep talk on September 30—right before our road trip—so if the news has swerved since then, consider that even more reason to show up this Saturday, October 18, for the second No Kings Day. June’s turnout was huge and electric; it reminded us that we’re part of something bigger, locally and nationally. Let’s build on that energy.
Why we’re going back out
The chaos and cruelty haven’t slowed. Courts and Congress matter, but again and again we’re reminded: it’s up to us. Research shows that when about 3.5% of a nation engages in sustained, visible resistance, authoritarian projects usually can’t hold. June’s estimates ranged from 5–12 million. Let’s meet—and beat—that higher number.
What to do this week (just one thing)
Go to your local No Kings Day on Saturday, Oct 18.Find and register for a NO KINGS DAY event on Mobilize.us
Protest 101 (and 102—no exam, just the practicum)
* Bring friends. Joy is a force multiplier. Make it lunch + rally or rally + lake walk.
* Make/bring a sign. Snarky or serious both work. A few faves:
* “No Faux King Way”
* “It’s giving small dick-tator energy.”
* “Defend the Constitution.” (Perfect if you want strong + civil.)Here’s some sign inspiration!
* Safety common sense. Stay aware of surroundings. If it doesn’t feel right, shift your spot or sit one out and support from the edges (materials, rides, comms).
* Phone tip. Consider turning off Face ID/face recognition during the event; turn it back on later.
* Dad-mode basics. Hydrate, hat, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, comfy shoes. Pocket Constitution optional but on brand.
Chant cheat-sheet (keep it short, punchy, and fun)
* “Hey hey, ho ho, Donald Trump has got to go.”
* “When I say ‘We want,’ you say ‘Justice!’—We want / Justice!”
* Swap in what fits: democracy, healthcare, “No Kings,” etc.Here’s the chant + song link.
Spirit Week energy
If you’re organizing with friends, pick a color or theme. Silly hats totally count. The point is to be seen, heard, and counted—and to make participation welcoming for first-timers. Many people told us June was their first protest ever. Expect more first-timers this weekend—say hi.
Big fish, bigger school
There’s that image of a big fish bearing down on tiny fish—until the small ones move together and form a bigger fish. That’s the assignment. We still have assembly and speech protections—use them so we don’t lose them.
Joyful Moments (because we need those, too)
We’re projecting forward that our road trip left us smiling—and equally happy to be home. Travel is great; coming home to a place you love is its own kind of fuel. Fingers crossed we’re still married after all those miles (for the sake of the podcast, obviously 😉).
See you in the streets and town centers on October 18. Let’s save our democracy together.
