Thousands gather in Eureka for “No Kings” protest

by Cody Wright

An estimated 3,000 people gathered outside Humboldt County Courthouse on March 28, filling the street with signs, music and the constant sound of passing cars honking in support.

The crowd gathered with a mix of purpose and energy, as people of all ages, from high school students to seniors, stood side by side. Music and marching band rhythms echoed through the area, while conversations and laughter moved through the crowd.

A sea of signs stretched across the crowd, shifting in tone and message as people moved along the street. Some drew on history and symbolism, drawing on the theme of “No Kings,” while others mixed humor with their frustration with slogans. Many focused on specific policies, calling for action with anti-ICE messages and calls for impeachment. Others appealed to science, religion or morality. The result wasn’t a single unified message, but a layered mix of frustration, satire and urgency.

The rally was organized locally by 50501 Humboldt, part of a broader national effort.

“It’s a space of friendship. It’s a space of community, but it’s also a space of protest,” said Josey,  an organizer with the group, who asked for her last name to be withheld due to fear of retaliation. “It’s a space of protest, a space of ‘we’ve had enough of what’s going on. My main goal was not only to bring awareness, but also bring people together.”

For others, the motivation was more personal. Pat Cyzauskas, a retired nurse, said rising costs and political frustration pushed her to attend.

“I don’t know if anything’s going to change, but people are getting upset,” Cyzauskas said. “She pointed to everyday expenses as part of that frustration.“My water bill went up $40 in one month. I just looked at the bill and almost passed out.”

Eureka Police Chief Brian Stephens said the event remained peaceful, with minimal need for police involvement.

“For this large of a group it’s gone really well,” Stephens said. “People have monitored themselves and everybody’s been safe. “Our goal is to make sure a safe space for people to exercise this right.”

Stephens estimated the crowd at around 3,000 people and called it “a big crowd for any kind of event in Humboldt County.”

As the rally continued, the tone shifted from organized demonstration to something more celebratory. Music grew louder and by the end of the event, a hardcore band played as younger attendees released their frustration by forming a mosh pit in the crowd. 

Even as frustration brought people together, many said hope was what kept them there. For Kephas Ennis, a local high school student, being a part of the younger generation drives him to speak up for the world he will be left with. 

“This is the world that we’re going to inherit,”  Ennis said. “These are all real issues that we’re going to face. If people don’t stand up for what they think is right, nothing will change.”