Some of Hollywood’s biggest voices let their voices be heard during the “No Kings’’ rallies held across the nation on October 18. The coordinated series of demonstrations was in protest to policies of a growing authoritarianism and democracy under the Trump administration, according to the organizers, who were made up of a coalition of 200 progressive groups. More than 2,700 events took place across all 50 states, with stars sharing their concerns across both coasts.
Kerry Washington, who often uses her platform to defend democratic rights, dropped a series of clips on Instagram showing her and others’ involvement. The Prophecy 2 star and executive producer wrote “No Kings,” with an X through it, along with “peaceful and impactful protests.” She also reposted a clip from John Legend, who shared information about the importance of the upcoming day.
Spike Lee, repping for his hometown in New York City, shared a photo from the NYC protest of a sign next to a Trump billboard, captioned: ” Get Up Stand Up. Ya-Dig? SH. -Nuff,” with a fist bump emoji.
The White Lotus star Natasha Rothwell, who is part of the relaunch of the Committee for the First Amendment, originally launched by Hollywood celebrities in 1947 to protest an ensuing Hollywood blacklist, posted a photo of herself at a rally holding up a sign that read: “You are trash.”
Other stars who freely showcased their support included Ayo Edebiri, who’s currently starring in the racially charged film, After the Hunt and Law & Order: SVU star Ice-T.
The gatherings hold a crucial message for the Black community as the current administration continues to threaten equity and civil rights. From aggressive rollbacks in federal and equity laws to the firing of Black leaders, it’s a direct hit on our civil rights and justice.
Republican allies criticized the rallies, with President Donald Trump downplaying the events. He told Fox News, “They’re saying they’re referring to me as a king. I’m not a king.”