No Kings Protests of February 14

Please send us your pictures and observations of the protests that you attended.

A report from Lansing

At the start of the protest, the crowd was small, but as the day got warmer, it grew to and estimate of over 2000 people on the lawn in front of the State Capitol. Participants held creative signs and flags to show their individual concerns. They sat on the lawn, some in chairs, but most simply stood up to see the speakers.  All were ready to respond to speakers by chanting in unison and cheering when speakers made a good statement.  Drivers honked in support. Some wore face masks in defiance of Trump, while others donned shirts, hats, and sweatshirts with slogans. There was no violence, but police officers were present for traffic control. Participants proudly displayed their signs, expressing their anger and passion.

Some posters focused on the issues---NO KINGS IN THE USA SINCE 1776--PROTECT THE CONSTITUTION ---SCIENCE DOES NOT MAKE THINGS UP---ALL LIVES MATTER---STAND UP FOR OUR VETS---SILENCE TYRANNY--- THREE BENCHES, NOT ONE THRONE---OBAY YOUR OATH---MAKE AMERICA SANE AGAIN---SUPPORT OUR VETS---PRISON WITHOUT DUE PROCESS IS A CONCENTRATION CAMP, and so forth.  

Other participants held posters that were sharply critical of Donald Trump and other government officials---HE SHOULD BE IN THE BIG HOUSE, NOT THE WHITE HOUSE---OUR LAST KING WAS GEORGE III, HE WAS CRAZY TOO----MEIN TRUMPF---DEAR CANADIANS, WE DON’T LIKE HIM EITHER---DEPORT THE NAZI---ELECT A CLOWN, EXPECT A CIRCUS---IF WE CAN AFFORD A PARADE WE CAN AFFORD MEDICAID---LETS GET A COMPETENT CONGRESS---LOCK HIM UP--LETS SUPPORT TRUMP FOR A THIRD TERM, IN THE BIG HOUSE---DEPORT ICE, and so forth. 

It was inspiring to see so many people united in the belief that Donald Trump does not represent them, and that it's time to end the chaos.

Saved for member posts and photos

Advice on protest signs 

Message 

  • Keep your message clear, concise, and to the point

  • Use a short, bold sentences

  • Try to be original and personal

  • Use a positive message to create solidarity

  • Use humor to bring people together

Material

  • Use a sturdy material like foam core which can hold up in any weather 

  • Use poster board, cardboard, or corrugated plastic 

  • For a sturdier sign, sandwich cardboard between two pieces of poster board 

  • Flags create attention, but metal signs and poles may not be allowed.

Decoration 

  • Use paint, markers, or other craft supplies

  • Use a bright background color and contrasting text color

  • Use images and symbols that people will understand immediately

  • For bigger patterns, use a dressmaker pattern wheel or pounce wheel to make holes

Other tips 

  • If you expect media attention, make a double-sided sign

  • Consider using a slogan or logo made from thick card

  • Consider using a catchy phrase that uses alliteration