More than 100 citizens from Kewanee, Cambridge, Galva, Annawan, Sheffield, Stark County and Woodhull gathered Saturday at the corner of Second and Main streets in Kewanee to demonstrate their commitment to American democracy.
Chants of “This is what democracy looks like,” “No kings,” and “USA” echoed through the crowd as demonstrators held signs expressing concerns over issues such as the erosion of civil rights, the treatment of immigrants by ICE, and what many described as the growing threat of fascism in the United States.
Critics of the “No Kings” protest, including several officials from the Trump administration, have labeled protest participants as antifa, pro-Hamas or even terrorists who hate their country. But several demonstrators told The Kewanee Voice they were there out of patriotism and a deep love for their country.
“First of all,” said one protester, “I don’t hate America. I am a proud American and I come from a long line of antifa.”
Many attendees clarified that “antifa” refers to being anti-fascist, not membership in any formal organization.
“I am antifa because everyone should be,” said another protester. “That’s anti-fascist.”
Among the crowd was a group of women from Galva, including several librarians. “We are Americans that support the Constitution,” one of them said.
A Galva mother brought her three young daughters to the nationwide protest. “We love America. That’s why we’re here. This is their country,” she said, speaking about her daughters. “It’s their future at stake.”
A 78-year-old veteran from Kewanee also joined the rally, emphasizing his lifelong dedication to the nation.
“I don’t hate America, or I wouldn’t have served in the military and joined in high school,” he said.
Kewanee was one of 2,700 communities across the country that participated in Saturday’s demonstrations. Official estimates place the total turnout as high as 8.2 million protesters nationwide.
