HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) — More than 700 residents from Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, and across the Shenandoah Valley gathered Saturday afternoon for a peaceful protest as part of a nationwide day of action.

The local demonstration, held at 12:30 p.m. on the lawn south of Turner Pavilion, coincided with more than 3,000 “No Kings Day of Nonviolent Action” events reported across all 50 states. Participants voiced opposition to what organizers described as “increasingly authoritarian actions by the current presidential administration.”

Protesters in Harrisonburg carried signs reading “No Kings,” “Families Belong Together,” and “Protect queer kids,” while chanting slogans such as “No hate, no fear, immigrants are welcome here.” Monarch butterfly imagery, often associated with immigrant advocacy, appeared on several banners.

The event featured speakers representing a range of community and advocacy groups, including Indivisible, Mountain Valley Mutual Aid, Mennonite Action, Starbucks Workers United, and the Friendly City Safe Space. Musical performances were provided by local groups Cafe con Leche and the Raging Grannies, and a reader’s theater presentation of the Declaration of Independence was staged to highlight concerns about civil liberties.

Some participants also raised concerns about the use of Flock Safety automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras in Harrisonburg. The system, installed by the Harrisonburg Police Department approximately two years ago, operates at more than 30 locations throughout the city. Critics at the protest argued the technology tracks residents’ movements and raised questions about data privacy and oversight.

An attendee who declined to be identified said they felt compelled to participate due to concerns about immigration enforcement actions affecting local families.

Organizers said the demonstration is part of an ongoing series of “No Kings” protests in the Shenandoah Valley. Previous events in 2025 drew large crowds nationwide, with organizers estimating millions of participants across multiple dates.

Saturday’s rally emphasized solidarity with immigrants, LGBTQ+ individuals, and others who organizers say are affected by federal policy changes. Participants also expressed concern about access to social services and broader civil rights issues.

The event remained peaceful throughout, with attendees gathering, marching, and listening to speakers before dispersing later in the afternoon.