VALLEY CITY, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Approximately 150 local citizens sang songs, modeled American democracy in action, and displayed various pro-democracy messages at a No Kings in the USA; outdoor rally in Valley City on Saturday, Oct. 18 according to local event organizers.
Spanning a broad age range, the crowd delivered a consistent message: “We are here because we love America, and in America we do NOT have kings — nor do we have gilded palaces for elected officeholders.”We are here to remind everyone that in America, governing power comes from The People, not from one person,” stated one rally participant.
Another protester said, “We are calling on North Dakota’s three representatives in Congress to honor their sacred oath to uphold the U.S. Constitution by providing the checks and balance of power that they swore to provide as members of one of three co-equal branches of the Government.”
A handful of dissenting demonstrators took advantage of the pro-democracy rally’s prominent location to express a contrasting message. “We respect and honor their right to free speech,” commented Vicki Voldal Rosenau, co-organizer of the event along with Madeline Luke and Betty Tykwinski.
“Above all, we know that peaceful protest is the literal, historical foundation of American democracy. Demonstrating and speaking out are NOT “insurrection,” and must never be treated as such. In fact, speaking out for democracy and against authoritarianism is both our RIGHT and our patriotic DUTY,” Voldal Rosenau added.
A No Kings Rally held in Jamestown drew a few hundred people in the Buffalo City on Saturday, October 18th.
