Rallies across Whatcom, Skagit and San Juan counties urge Constitutional protections, justice and peace.
With more than 3,000 individual No Kings rallies registered on the website nationwide, cities and towns across Whatcom, San Juan and Skagit counties saw large numbers standing up to “chaos, corruption and cruelty” at the federal level.
While attendance varied across the region, from the thousands holding signs at Waypoint Park in Bellingham to hundreds at smaller demonstrations on the islands, each event showed even greater support than the previous No Kings rallies in October and June, according to those marching.
Whatcom
“Most of the time we’re all trying to make money and do our jobs, and we’re in our houses so much. I think it’s important for people to know that we’re all very passionate about the same thing, and we’re all waiting for somebody like a Martin Luther King to just lead us. But really what we need is everybody to come out of their houses at the same time and navigate and organize together to be active.” – Stephanie Volkman (left), Bellingham
“I want to save democracy. I’m not happy with the president that we have right now. I’m so happy that the whole country is getting together. I’m all for patriotism and not fascism.” – Sue Lyerla (right), Bellingham
“I think it’s important to get to know your neighbors in case things get really bad, kind of like when COVID happened. Being able to connect with your neighbors, get information, get food, or supplies is really important for community, feeling safe, depending on each other. That’s all stuff I really believe in.” – Caley Johnson (left), Bellingham
“The goal of this neighborhood organizing thing is to have some sort of a meetup afterward, just to continue the conversation, because change doesn’t happen in one day. The movement really goes nowhere if we don’t continue to show up for it.” – Abigail Bailey (right), Bellingham
“It’s going to be us. We can’t count on some savior to come save us. It’s not going to be the Democratic Party. It’s definitely not going to be the Democratic establishment.” – Alison Gallont, Bellingham
“I’ve got two kids out there. I’m a little bit worried about what they can have. The lack of achievement compared to me and my parents. I hate to say it, but the evil is prevailing, in a sense. I just can’t believe it.” – Mark Baeder, Bellingham
Skagit
Several hundred also took to College Way in Mount Vernon, and many of those answering the rallying cry came from gatherings earlier in the day in Burlington and Anacortes.
“I’m autistic, and I get bored, and so this gives me something to do. That’s nice. But also, and it hasn’t been a problem today, but sometimes you go to a protest and it’s quiet, and it’s terribly discouraging to have a quiet protest.” – Ken Rasmussen, Mount Vernon
“It’s a disgrace to me as an American and a veteran to say that I fought for this s***, pardon my language, so I’m just out here because there’s strength in numbers.” – Sam Bull, Mount Vernon
“I dress like a dinosaur to show joy, because MAGAs don’t like joy. Eee eee eee!” – Sierra Rogers, Mount Vernon
San Juan
Approximately 1,000 people marched down Spring Street in Friday Harbor, over 10% of San Juan Island’s population, stopping on the courthouse steps for speakers and music.
“By building community, demonstrating collective power and holding our elected officials accountable amid unprecedented threats, we will not be ignored. That is why coming together truly makes a difference.” – Debbi Fincher, founding member of Indivisible San Juan Island, Friday Harbor
“We have a right to be angry. We want a better world. Find bravery and give a damn!” – Adam Rogowski, chair of the San Juan Democratic Party, Friday Harbor
“No kings. No jesters. No child molesters. (Attending a rally) definitely makes a difference.” – Jamie Ellsworth (right), Friday Harbor.
— Compiled by Sam Fletcher, Christy Carley, Nancy DeVaux, Robert Harrison and Rod Mar
Also read in Salish Current:
• “The music of a movement,” – Feb. 26, 2026
• “Heartbreak, rage and shame as community mourns death of Renee Good, protests ICE,” – Jan. 14, 2026
• “‘No Kings’ protests call for upholding the Constitution” – June 16, 2025
• “Commentary: Campus protests over Gaza part of a proud tradition,” – May 15, 2024