Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, México – Our Costa Banderas chapter of Democrats Abroad scheduled an in-support meet-up at the No Kings/No Tyrants rally this past Saturday. It was a beautiful day in a beautiful place, and we were among friends… a lot of friends!
The estimates varied among those gathered and counting from 200 to 350! Some took refuge from the beaming sun under the long porch behind the speaking area and other limited shades in Hidalgo Parque, complicating the final count. The estimate of 300 resonated with many of those gathered.
Indivisible Abroad-Vallarta had invited all who want to stand in solidarity with those who oppose the cruel policies and actions of the Trump administration. Members of the crowd shouted out their reasons – opposing the actions of ICE acting as a military force against Americans, constant lying from Trump on down, reductions and destruction of institutions that help people – CDC, TSA, FEMA, and Medicare/Medicaid – rampant graft, lack of accountability for violating laws and the U.S. Constitution, the undeclared war against Iran, and others.
Many of signs that people brought were clever, such as “Palms for Peace, No Kings Period” encircled by rainbow-colored human hand prints. Another demanded “No Payasos” (clowns). However, there were many more serious signs – “War, What is it Good For Absolutely Nothing (Just Epstein File Distraction)” and “Country Over Cult.” Of course, there were lots of “No Kings” signs affirming that people recognize that Trump has run over the U.S. Constitution while Congress and The Supreme Court have not acted in good faith to protect the rule of law and the balance of power.
This is the critical point of the rallies for being known as “No Kings” in the U.S. They also are known as “No Tyrants” and “No Dictators” in other places around the world. These rallies are the latest in a series of mass demonstrations that began in 2025.
Organizers estimate about 5 million people joined the first major “No Kings” protest this past June, followed by roughly 7 million in October. Indivisible and other No Kings organizers estimate Saturday’s count at or over 8 million, making it largest No Kings so far and largest peaceful protest gatherings in U.S. history!
Speakers reminded us that when institutions fail to protect us, the people must stand together to protect each other. Gay Rights activist and event organizer Clint Harris thanked Minnesotans who showed us how courage begets courage to stand and protect your neighbors. Let us have the courage to do more, to join together with others, to call your representatives, and to vote!
Well-respected writer and journalist Charlotte Smith spoke movingly of her own immigration story and warned that we cannot let our institutions be eroded away. When asked about her participation in the rally, she said, “I’ve spent years encouraging people to use their voices, because our words not only have meaning, but can create such change if we use them wisely. Seeing that happen because of something I wrote, something I said, holds more meaning for me than I’d ever dreamed a moment like that could have. I’m grateful, inspired, and more committed than ever before.”
Lifelong Human Rights activist Vicki Ohly said that many people still today say that they do not want to get involved politically, but at no time in her lifetime has it been more imperative that these people understand and participate in politics and vote!
Lastly, musician, artist and columnist AJ Freeman affirmed that there is no vacation from fascism. Politics can always touch you. He says don’t give MAGA a safe place in your life! Cut them out!
It may be helpful to know that Indivisible is a U.S. progressive grassroots organization and movement that mobilizes citizens through networks of local volunteer groups. It has been successful organizing and supporting the “No Kings” rallies along with the 50501 Movement and other community organizers. Indivisible Abroad is an adjacent organization to Indivisible for those living outside of the U.S. It also mobilizes rallies through local volunteer groups.
After the rally, what is next?
Resister to Vote/Request your Ballot NOW for 2026!
If you plan to vote in your precinct, Click HERE to check your status.
If you plan to be voting from outside US you can request your ballot online at VoteFromAbroad.org.
If you are in the in the greater Banderas Bay area, Click HERE for local Vote From Abroad Centers, or email votefromabroad.cb(at)gmail.com
Join Local Team Organizations:
Indivisible Abroad: The purpose of Indivisible Abroad is to build a network of US citizens who live abroad and want the people of the United States to restore our democracy through peaceful resistance and protest. We also welcome allies who are not US citizens but are concerned about US politics and policy. For more information about the local chapter, send an email to indivisibleabroadPVR(at)gmail.com.
Democrats Abroad is a 100% volunteer-run organization, with active chapters across six continents and members who vote in every U.S. state and congressional district. If you have a residence outside of the US and would like to join, Click HERE.
Costa Banderas is one of the eight chapters in Mexico. For more information about the local chapter, send an email to dacb.membership(at)gmail.com. If you would like to donate to fund local Voter Assistance/Communications, Click HERE.
Paid for by the Costa Banderas Chapter of Democrats Abroad. With country committees and local chapters in over 80 countries around the world, Democrats Abroad is the official Democratic Party organization for the millions of Americans living outside the United States. For more information about the Costa Banderas Chapter of Democrats Abroad, click HERE or contact Chapter-Chair Clint Harris at Info-MX-CostaBanderas@democratsabroad.org.