Third ‘No Kings’ protest in Lawrence draws large crowd once again
Thousands of demonstrators filled Watson Park in downtown Lawrence on Saturday, March 28, marking the third protest out of a series of national “No Kings” protests. The first two were in 2025, with one in June and another in October. The protests are a part of a nationwide movement, and Lawrence was not hesitant to join in. All three Lawrence “No Kings” protests have been held at Watson Park.
Demonstrators came together to express their views and share what the movement means to them.
“Protesting and being peaceful… and standing up for what you believe in is like an American thing,” said Allison Davenport, a Lawrence resident who came with her kids. “It’s something to be proud of.”
The park was filled with energy as demonstrators supported the protest in unique ways. Car horns blared in support as crowds carried signs, wore costumes and played instruments. Music quickly became one of the defining aspects of the day.
Ric Averill used his banjo to play protest songs, something he’s done for decades.
“I demonstrated against the war in Vietnam with this same banjo and a lot of these same songs 50 years ago… right here in this very park,” Averill said. “I just started taking it along and became one of those people who sang at demonstrations.”
There was a wide demographic represented at the protest. Davenport was not the only parent who brought kids along. Families made up a noticeable portion of the crowd, and kids could be seen playing catch, holding signs, and even chanting along.
For Davenport, it was an opportunity to educate her kids firsthand.
“We brought them on purpose because we want them to see that this is like a community-wide, held belief,” Davenport said. “We do talk about it in our home a lot.”
Children in attendance shared their own excitement about being involved.
“I like to be here because I just want to be part of this moment,” Elliot Solis, one of the kids in attendance, said.
A consistent message emerged from many participants: to not be complacent with corruption and to speak up and stand firm in your beliefs.
“Don’t be scared to speak your truth and to talk about things you actually believe in,” Eva Farmer, another protester said. “It’s better to speak up, than to be silent and let bad things happen.
The first 2026 “No Kings” protest was a success, especially in Lawrence, where peaceful protests continue to thrive.
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