The energy at the March 28 “No Kings” rallies across Mexico was unmistakable — from Mexico City and Guadalajara to Puerto Vallarta and Ajijic, where organizers say the turnout and spirit exceeded expectations.
“The energy … was palpable,” said Janet Payne, head of the Democrats Abroad Lake Chapala chapter, describing a rally filled with “energetic speakers and talented singers” that left participants feeling part of something much larger — one of more than 3,300 events held worldwide that day.
For many who gathered, the moment carried a sense of urgency and historical weight.
“We want all the people there … to be able to proudly say … ‘Yes, I did something when authoritarianism and fascism and racism … came knocking at the door of the United States,’” Payne said.
But as the rallies fade, a more difficult question is emerging, being asked not just in Mexico, but across the United States: What comes next?
From protest to strategy
The “No Kings” movement has drawn millions into the streets in recent months, fueled by concern over democratic backsliding in the U.S. Some say its decentralized nature — arguably one of its strengths — may also be a challenge moving forward.
“The strength is that everyone is welcome … and can bring the issues they are interested in,” said Gaby Moreno, president of Democrats Abroad Guadalajara. “The downside is that there is no focus.”
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