Wilmington, N.C. – Demonstrations are planned across the Wilmington area today as part of the nationwide “No Kings Day of Nonviolent Action.” Organizers anticipate a significant turnout as participants rally against policies they attribute to President Donald Trump, marking the third year of the protests. Events are scheduled in Wilmington, Castle Hayne, Surf City, and Shallotte, building on previous demonstrations that have drawn thousands of supporters.
The “No Kings” movement, which began in 2025, frames its protests as a response to what it describes as Trump’s policies that “terrorize communities by targeting immigrant families, threatening to overtake elections, gutting healthcare, environmental protections and education.” The movement has grown rapidly, with over 3,000 events planned nationally today, according to organizers. The protests are intended to be nonviolent and serve as a visible display of opposition to the former president’s continued influence.
In Wilmington, the largest demonstration is expected to begin at 11 a.m. With marches launching from two locations: Castle Street between Fourth Street and Fifth Avenue, and the 1898 Memorial Park. Participants will converge at the intersection of Princess and North Third streets, where the demonstration is scheduled to continue until 2 p.m. A second Wilmington-area event is planned for Castle Hayne Road from 4 p.m. To 5 p.m., though details are limited to those who have registered to attend.
Further afield, a rally is already underway in Surf City, beginning at 9 a.m. At the Surf City Bridge and expected to conclude at noon. In Shallotte, residents are gathering at the intersection of Main Street and Smith Avenue from 1:30 p.m. To 3 p.m. These smaller events aim to extend the reach of the protest throughout the region.
A History of Local Mobilization
The “No Kings” movement first gained traction in Wilmington on June 14, 2025, coinciding with former President Trump’s birthday. Over 5,000 people participated in a demonstration at Innes Park, according to Lynn Shoemaker, founding president of Women Organizing for Wilmington. The StarNews reported at the time that the event was one of many held across the country that day.
The movement continued to build momentum, with a larger wave of protests on October 18, 2025. Organizers reported over 7 million participants in more than 2,700 events nationwide. Locally, rallies were held in Wilmington, Leland, Shallotte, and Surf City. The scale of these events demonstrated a growing level of engagement and a sustained commitment to the movement’s goals.
National Scope and Organizing Efforts
The “No Kings” movement has evolved from a single day of protest into a sustained effort to mobilize opposition. Deirdre Schifeling, chief political and advocacy officer for the American Civil Liberties Union, stated on the No Kings website, “On March 28, we’ll be out in even greater numbers.” This reflects a strategic effort to maintain visibility and pressure on political leaders.
According to the movement’s website, “What began in 2025 as a single day of defiance has grow a sustained national resistance to tyranny, spreading from small towns to city centers and across every community determined to defend democracy.” This framing emphasizes the long-term nature of the movement and its broad-based appeal.
Live Updates and Further Information
Those interested in following the events as they unfold can uncover live updates from USA TODAY here. Additional information about the “No Kings” movement and its goals can be found on their official website.
Organizers have not announced any specific follow-up events at this time, but continue to encourage participation in future actions. The next significant date for the movement is likely to be tied to any legal challenges or political developments related to the issues they are protesting. We will continue to provide updates as they become available.
Bob Liepa is the city of Wilmington and public safety reporter for the StarNews. You can reach him at [email protected].
If you or someone you know is struggling with feelings of anxiety or distress related to political events, resources are available. You can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, or call the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264).
