CIBOLA COUNTY, N.M. — Nearly 100 people gathered in downtown Grants on Friday morning to take part in the national “No Kings Day” protest, a Flag Day demonstration focused on preserving democracy, defending civil liberties, and opposing authoritarianism.
The peaceful event unfolded on the sidewalk along Santa Fe Avenue, near the historic caboose and Mining Museum. For three hours, participants waved signs, shared messages, and engaged passing motorists in what organizers described as a grassroots effort to remind the public that power in the United States belongs to the people — not a single leader.
The protest aligned with similar actions across the country, responding in part to concerns over rising executive power, immigration enforcement practices, and what participants saw as the politicization of national institutions.
While the crowd reflected a wide range of political perspectives, all were united under the event’s core theme: “No Kings.” Some signs called out specific policies or international issues; others focused on broader constitutional principles like free speech, equality, and civic duty.
Organizers emphasized that the demonstration was nonpartisan and intended as a show of civic engagement rather than political loyalty. Many attendees noted the importance of protesting peacefully, registering to vote, and encouraging others to participate in upcoming elections.
Cibola County Undersheriff Jeff Marez had previously met with event organizers earlier in the week and assured them the sheriff’s office would provide a security presence along the protest route. However, no deputies were visible during the first hour of the event.
Following a few tense moments involving large trucks driving aggressively close to protestors and releasing diesel exhaust smoke, organizers called the sheriff’s office twice. A deputy arrived in plain clothes with a CCSO vest and remained on scene for the remained of the event.
Despite a few agitations, including from one aggressive park-goer who loudly shared their opinion, the protest remained peaceful. Organizers said they were proud that the event stayed civil and focused.
Grants City Councilor Beverly Michael was the only elected official at the protest. She spent time assisting with sign-making and talking to residents about civic engagement. Michael said she was disappointed more elected leaders did not attend and called for greater representation of women in local and state government.
“This is important work,” she said. “We need more women running for office and more people taking part in shaping the future of their communities.” She said there will be an election in November for two Grants City Council seats, and encouraged residents to consider running.
She and other participants said they hope the demonstration will spark continued conversations — and action — in Cibola County and beyond. While many acknowledged differences of opinion within the group, they saw that as a strength rather than a flaw. The ability to disagree respectfully, they said, is what democracy is all about.
Organizers described the day as a success, noting the strong turnout and the spirit of collaboration among attendees. While the event was limited to just a few hours, they said the message will carry forward. In a town better known for its mining history than political protests, June 14 stood out as a day when residents came together — not in opposition to each other, but in shared belief that democracy only survives when the people show up and put it to action, and that the United States of America shall have no kings.