News Summary
New Orleans witnessed a significant turnout for the ‘No Kings 2.0’ rally at Lafitte Greenway, as thousands protested against the Trump administration’s actions. The event featured performances, speeches from community leaders, and a vibrant display of solidarity among participants. Attendees chanted slogans emphasizing democracy and political engagement. The rally not only highlighted local concerns but also showcased international support, reflecting a broad national sentiment against perceived governmental overreach. This gathering was part of a larger movement with similar protests occurring nationwide.
New Orleans saw thousands of protestors gather at Lafitte Greenway on Saturday, October 18, 2025, for the “No Kings 2.0” rally. This event was a part of a nationwide movement opposing what many attendees described as the “authoritarian excesses and corruption of the Trump administration.” The gathering was marked by a strong sense of solidarity among participants from across Louisiana.
The rally featured a performance by renowned jazz trumpeter Kermit Ruffins, who opened the event with renditions of “The Star-Spangled Banner” and “America the Beautiful.” A vibrant sea of colorful costumes adorned the crowd, with attendees dressed as ducks, unicorns, and Pokémon, while others wore Statue of Liberty headdresses and keffiyehs.
Several key speakers addressed the crowd, including Alanah Odoms from ACLU Louisiana, Cody Kyser, a U.S. Navy veteran and union organizer, and Alfredo Salazar from Union Migrante. They discussed issues such as military policing and the use of armed forces in domestic policing, emphasizing the importance of defending the Constitution. Demonstrators carried signs with messages that urged resistance and political engagement, chanting slogans like “This is what democracy looks like.”
The turnout for this rally reportedly exceeded that of the previous “No Kings” event in June, which attracted around 6,500 participants. Organizers indicated that similar protests were taking place in other Louisiana cities, such as Baton Rouge, Hammond, and Lafayette, and across more than 2,600 cities nationwide. The protest coincided with a military parade held by the Trump administration, enhancing the atmosphere of resistance.
Former mayoral candidate Richard “Ricky” Twigs labeled the turnout as “incredible,” reflecting a growing sentiment of resistance among those present. Lasonja Eleby, a licensed professional counselor, noted the significance of the rally amidst the current chaos in Washington politics. Meanwhile, Governor Jeff Landry had previously petitioned for the deployment of National Guard troops in Louisiana due to rising crime rates, despite New Orleans experiencing a 50-year low in crime.
The rally not only gathered local participants but also showcased international support, with protests occurring outside U.S. embassies in cities like Berlin and Paris. This aspect underlines the larger national sentiment against President Trump’s policies, which include immigration enforcement and perceived attacks on free speech. Protestors expressed frustration over the Trump administration’s handling of media relations and political opposition, calling for increased political engagement and participation among younger Americans.
In summary, the “No Kings 2.0” rally in New Orleans exemplified a broader national movement, uniting thousands of individuals in protest against what they view as detrimental policies and practices of the Trump administration. The gathering not only highlighted concerns about governance and democracy but also served as a platform for individuals from various backgrounds to voice their collective dissent.
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Times: No Kings Protests
- Fox 8 Live: No Kings 2.0 Rally
- NOLA: No Kings Rally in New Orleans
- Wikipedia: Protests in the United States
- CBS News: No Kings Trump Rallies
Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER
The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
