Hundreds Unite in Estes Park for “No Kings” Protest Against Authoritarianism

A significant demonstration took place in Estes Park on February 3, 2024, as hundreds gathered for the “No Kings” protest. This event forms part of a national movement aimed at opposing authoritarianism and advocating for democratic values. Protesters included a diverse mix of residents and visitors, drawn together by a shared commitment to civic engagement.

The atmosphere at the protest was lively yet peaceful, as demonstrators waved signs proclaiming messages such as “No Kings, Protect Democracy” and “Refuse Unlawful Orders.” The crowd featured a variety of participants, from retirees and young families to individuals in colorful costumes. One attendee, wearing an orange inflatable hood, expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “If I’m going to protest in Estes Park, I might as well do it as Kenny. We’ve got to work together — there are no kings in America, or at least there shouldn’t be.”

Participants in the protest received support from passing cars, which honked in solidarity. While some skeptical onlookers observed from the sidelines, there was no organized counter-protest, allowing the event to maintain its focus on promoting democratic principles.

Among the attendees were Chris and Eleanor Stewart, who traveled from Denver with their four daughters. Chris Stewart conveyed his concerns about the regression of women’s rights, saying, “It’s sad to see women’s rights being rolled back as our daughters come of age. They have fewer rights now than we did when we were their age.” Eleanor Stewart added, “We’re here to support democracy. We want our kids to see that it’s worth showing up for.” This marked the first protest for the Stewart family, who felt compelled to participate after witnessing the ongoing political climate.

A small group of local climbers, guides, and freelance journalists also joined the demonstration. One writer stated, “I mostly cover climbing and conservation, but this matters too. Journalism matters.” Another participant highlighted the challenges faced by federal employees during the ongoing government shutdown, emphasizing the importance of solidarity: “A lot of my friends are federal employees. They’re not getting paid during the shutdown, but they’re still showing up for work. The least I could do was show up for them.”

The Estes Park Police maintained a light presence throughout the event, which was praised by attendees for its cooperative spirit. One protester dressed as an eagle remarked, “It’s different here. Peaceful. And with all the tourists coming through, it’s a great place to get maximum exposure for the movement.” The protest’s message resonated with history enthusiasts as well, as one man held a sign honoring Captain Silas Soule and Lieutenant Joseph Cramer, officers known for their moral courage during the American Civil War. He explained, “They followed conscience over command. That’s what this moment feels like — a test of conscience. When power starts demanding immoral things, it comes down to the individual to refuse.”

As the afternoon progressed, light snow flurries began to swirl through the area, causing the crowd to thin out gradually. While the protest may not have matched the scale of larger rallies in cities like Denver or Fort Collins, it represented a notable demonstration of civic engagement for this small town located at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park. The event underscored the importance of participation in democratic processes, reflecting a commitment to collective action among community members.