Boston, October 19, 2025
News Summary
Over 100,000 attendees gathered in Boston Common for the ‘No Kings’ event, protesting against rising authoritarianism under President Trump’s administration. The demonstration was peaceful, featuring speakers like Mayor Michelle Wu and musical performances, and emphasized unity and democratic values. Organizers created a strong coalition across the city and state, representing a larger national movement against governmental policies, with supporters showcasing creativity through costumes and chants.
Boston
Bostonians gathered in large numbers for the “No Kings” event, estimated at over 100,000 attendees. The rally took place on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. on Boston Common and focused on protests against perceived rising authoritarianism under President Trump’s administration. Organizers reported a peaceful demonstration with no arrests and broad participation across the city and beyond.
Key details
Participants showcased signs, costumes, and chants while enjoying warm weather and blue skies. Musical performances at the rally featured Good Trouble Brass Band and BVocal Chorus. The Saturday rally included chants of “I believe that we will win.” Speakers included Mayor Michelle Wu, Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, who all defended the protests as patriotic acts. Mayor Michelle Wu addressed the crowd, asserting Boston’s commitment to freedom and democracy. Wu highlighted Boston’s history of protest, making references to Martin Luther King Jr. and the city’s past.
Attendance, scope and coordination
Bostonians gathered in large numbers for the “No Kings” event, estimated at over 100,000 attendees. Hundreds of “No Kings” marches occurred statewide in Massachusetts and nationwide. Similar rallies occurring in all 50 states made this the third nationwide protest against Trump this year. The rally coincided with protests against Trump’s policies nationwide, particularly regarding immigration enforcement.
Organizers, participants and themes
Organizers of the event included Indivisible Massachusetts, Mass 50501, and the ACLU of Massachusetts. The “No Kings” coalition had previously organized protests in June against Trump’s military parade. Previous “No Kings” protests in June coincided with Boston’s Pride Parade, showcasing diversity among protesters. Participants were dressed in various costumes, including historical figures, dinosaurs, and Dunkin’ attire. Protest signs featured puns critiquing Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) and referencing the Boston Tea Party.
Security and conduct
State Police and Boston Police coordinated security measures to prevent unrest, following earlier violent incidents. Organizers emphasized training on protest rights and de-escalation techniques for participants ahead of the rally. No arrests were reported during the rally, confirming that it remained peaceful.
Voices and public response
Attendee Eileen Ryan, dressed as Betsy Ross, expressed commitment to community engagement and First Amendment rights. Protesters celebrated democracy and emphasized unity and love within their demonstration. Democrats, including Warren and Sanders, defended the protests against Republican critiques labeling them as “un-American.”
Why it matters
The event was framed by organizers and participants as a defense of democratic norms and civil liberties, part of a series of nationwide demonstrations responding to White House policies and rhetoric. The combination of large-scale turnout in Boston, coordinated statewide and nationwide actions, and the involvement of public officials underscores the broader political and civic context in which the rally occurred.
Background
The “No Kings” coalition has organized multiple demonstrations this year. The June protests referenced above were one earlier instance, and this Saturday’s event followed a pattern of organized public actions addressing national policy decisions and enforcement practices. Organizers continue to emphasize legal rights, safety training, and nonviolent approaches to public protest while coordinating with law enforcement for citywide events.
FAQ
How many people attended the rally in Boston?
Bostonians gathered in large numbers for the “No Kings” event, estimated at over 100,000 attendees.
When and where did the rally take place?
The rally took place on Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. on Boston Common.
Were there other marches beyond Boston?
Hundreds of “No Kings” marches occurred statewide in Massachusetts and nationwide.
Was this part of a larger nationwide movement?
Similar rallies occurring in all 50 states made this the third nationwide protest against Trump this year.
Who organized the Boston rally?
Organizers of the event included Indivisible Massachusetts, Mass 50501, and the ACLU of Massachusetts.
Were there arrests or violence at the event?
No arrests were reported during the rally, confirming that it remained peaceful.
How did authorities prepare for the rally?
State Police and Boston Police coordinated security measures to prevent unrest, following earlier violent incidents.
What were some features of the rally?
Participants showcased signs, costumes, and chants while enjoying warm weather and blue skies.
Event Summary Table
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Date and time | Saturday, noon to 3 p.m. |
| Location | Boston Common |
| Estimated attendance | Over 100,000 attendees |
| Organizers | Indivisible Massachusetts; Mass 50501; ACLU of Massachusetts |
| Speakers and officials | Mayor Michelle Wu; Senators Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey |
| Music | Good Trouble Brass Band; BVocal Chorus |
| Security | State Police and Boston Police coordinated security measures |
| Law enforcement outcome | No arrests were reported during the rally |
| Nationwide context | Hundreds of “No Kings” marches occurred statewide in Massachusetts and nationwide; similar rallies occurring in all 50 states made this the third nationwide protest against Trump this year. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Boston Rally Opposes Federal Overreach
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Millions Expected at No Kings Protests Across the U.S.
Additional Resources
- NBC Boston
- CBS News
- Boston Globe
- Oregon Live
- Google Search: No Kings Rally Boston
- Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
