Thousands of people made their way to the Tennessee State Capitol on October 18, 2025 for the second nationwide “No Kings” rally, joining others across the country who are speaking out against President Donald Trump and his administration’s policies.
 
The crowd was a mix of families, young people, and older adults, all gathering for the event organized by Nashville Indivisible. Some held handmade signs and waved American flags, while others showed up in bright, creative costumes. Folks spread out across the grassy slope known as “Snow Sled Hill” before eventually moving over to line James Robertson Parkway.
 
Throughout the afternoon, local activists and faith leaders took turns at the microphone, alongside representatives from groups such as the United Volunteers of Tennessee and the Tennessee Immigrant and Refugee Rights Coalition.
 
“We’re here today because we refuse to live under kings, dictators, and tyrants,” said Jennifer Brinkman, leader of Nashville Indivisible. “The rich and powerful are dividing us. They want to strip away our health care. This isn’t about left or right. It’s about those at the top and the rest of us at the bottom.”
 
Organizers pointed to several recent events, including the National Guard deployment in Memphis, stepped-up immigration enforcement, and the White House’s recent compact offer with Vanderbilt University, as reasons for the growing pushback. They also reminded the crowd about the upcoming special election for the 7th Congressional District and encouraged everyone to vote.
 
One of the speakers, Nashville activist Odessa Kelly, urged people not to lose hope.
 
“They cannot steal your spirit,” she told the crowd. “You are the embodiment of the American Dream. The best thing we can teach our kids is to stand up for what’s right. We don’t bow to tyranny or to anyone who oppresses others.”
 
A musical lineup including Allison Russell, Emmylou Harris, Devon Gilfillian, Denitia, and Julie Williams performed “Tennessee Rise,” setting the tone before the crowd spilled onto the sidewalks to cheer at passing cars, buses, and even a few packed tourist vehicles.
 
Protesters carried signs with all kinds of messages: some criticizing Trump as a dictator, others calling for an end to the government shutdown, demanding affordable health care, or speaking out against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.