On June 14, communities across New York joined over a thousand rallies nationwide for a day of defiance known as the “No Kings” protest, pushing back against what many view as authoritarian overreach in the United States. While the nation’s capital hosted a lavish military parade in celebration of President Donald Trump’s birthday, towns like New Paltz, Kingston, Woodstock, and Gardiner demonstrated an alternative form of patriotism—grassroots activism.
From early morning through the afternoon, protestors across Ulster County and beyond made their voices heard, bearing signs, flags, and chants that underscored frustration with the current political landscape and a renewed commitment to democratic values.
New Paltz Leads with Community Spirit and Resistance
In New Paltz, approximately 400 residents gathered at the former firehouse, transforming the space into a hub of resistance and community expression. Organized by Indivisible New Paltz, the event offered more than just political messaging. Protestors were welcomed with live activist music by the band Tin Horn Uprising, alongside hot drinks and breakfast options.
Many American flags waved in the crowd—some flown upside-down as a symbol of national distress. One carried the message: “It’s everybody’s flag,” reinforcing the theme of reclaiming patriotic symbols. Protest signs ranged from witty to biting, reading:
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“Make lying wrong again”
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“Only you can prevent fascism”
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“Trump is a jerk”
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“No faux king way”
A craft station even allowed attendees to decorate cardboard crowns, satirizing the protest’s namesake by highlighting opposition to perceived monarchical behavior from the executive branch.
Passionate Speeches from Local Leaders
Several public figures delivered spirited speeches, rallying protestors to stand up for democracy and take political action.
Ulster County Legislator Limina Grace Harmon led a call-and-response chant, encouraging left-leaning states to use their talent and capital to challenge authoritarian trends.
County Executive Jen Metzger emphasized the urgency of participation, declaring:
“No one can stand on the sidelines. In Ulster County, we will take no part in an authoritarian system. Get out in the streets and protest.”
She reminded the crowd that in a democracy, “the citizens are the highest office.”
Amanda Gotto, New Paltz town supervisor, expressed shock and outrage over recent developments in the country. Using a “human microphone” technique—where people repeat words to amplify them in the absence of a sound system—Gotto shared her deep concern over the current political trajectory.
State Senator Michelle Hinchey criticized efforts to divide the public through fear and targeted attacks on minorities, warning of an erosion of dissent.
“We will not be quiet in this moment, watching the very fabric of our country unravel,” she said.
Hinchey urged attendees to contact all seven Republican members of New York’s congressional delegation, regardless of district, because “they represent New York.” She promised that in Albany, state leaders would continue to resist federal pressure:
“We will never cower in fear.”
Kingston and Beyond: Peaceful and Powerful Gatherings
Later in the day, thousands gathered in Kingston’s Academy Green Park, making it one of the largest protests in the Hudson Valley. Ulster County Sheriff Juan Figueroa confirmed that the protest in Kingston, along with other events in Gardiner and Woodstock, remained peaceful.
While there was a brief moment in Kingston where one protestor attempted to block traffic, no arrests were made, and the situation was resolved calmly.
Patriotism Redefined
New Paltz Mayor Tim Rogers closed the event with an empowering message on the meaning of patriotism.
“Liberty and justice for all is an absolute must, but it’s also aspirational—we’re not getting it right all the time,” Rogers said.
He pointed out that a successful movement needs the engagement of just 3.5% of the population. In New Paltz, that equates to roughly 500 people—a number nearly met by the day’s protest turnout.
Rogers reminded attendees that patriotism isn’t about unquestioning allegiance but about holding systems accountable and caring for all citizens, not just a select few. He reaffirmed that freedom includes the right to protest, stand or sit for the flag, and demand better from elected leaders.
A Peaceful Counterpoint to Federal Celebrations
While President Trump had warned of a strong response to any demonstrations coinciding with the D.C. military parade, no federal troops were dispatched to New Paltz, Kingston, or surrounding towns. The events stood as peaceful yet firm acts of dissent, deeply rooted in democratic values and community engagement.
Looking Ahead
The “No Kings” protest wasn’t just a one-day event—it was a call to action for communities across the country to remain vigilant, engaged, and united in defense of democracy. With local leaders encouraging continued activism, and participants energized by the turnout and solidarity, it’s clear that these towns intend to keep their voices heard well beyond Flag Day.
As one sign at the protest summed it up:
“We are not OK—but we are here.”
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