Charleston, SC, October 13, 2025
News Summary
The ‘No Kings’ demonstrations are set to occur across the U.S. on October 18, with significant rallies organized in South Carolina’s Lowcountry. The movement expects millions to unite amidst rising tensions over government policies. Emphasizing nonviolence, organizers have prohibited weapons at the events while participants are encouraged to voice concerns on various social issues such as LGBTQ rights and immigration policies. Previous protests in Charleston have drawn large crowds declared overwhelmingly peaceful by local authorities.
Charleston, SC – The “No Kings” demonstrations are scheduled to take place across the U.S. on October 18, with multiple rallies planned across the Lowcountry region in South Carolina. The “No Kings” movement is anticipating that “millions” will gather in various cities nationwide amidst ongoing tensions, including a government shutdown affecting federal workers and services, Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Portland, and considerations by the Trump administration to invoke the Insurrection Act to suppress dissent.
In South Carolina, two significant rallies are specifically organized near Charleston on the designated date, with additional events set to occur in Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton, Florence, Greenville, and Columbia. The “No Kings” movement emphasizes a commitment to nonviolence at all of its events, strictly prohibiting weapons even if they are legally allowed.
Previous protests in Charleston have attracted thousands, with local police declaring these events as “overwhelmingly peaceful.” The “No Kings” website promotes nonviolent actions and encourages participants to de-escalate potential confrontations. Attendees at recent demonstrations have voiced their concerns on a variety of issues, including support for Ukraine, LGBTQ rights, and deportation policies.
During a previous protest, Charleston Police reported two arrests: a 59-year-old man for trespassing and resisting arrest and a 33-year-old man for disorderly conduct. Officers were on hand to provide water to any participants who experienced heat-related issues, and the crowd dispersed peacefully after the event concluded at 11 a.m.
A noteworthy protest occurred on June 14, coinciding with Flag Day and Donald Trump’s birthday, which drew thousands to the South Carolina Statehouse, also with no reports of violence. Demonstrators carried signs highlighting various political issues, including deportation, Medicaid cuts, civil liberties, and LGBTQ+ rights. Feedback from attendees indicated the importance of Medicaid for specialized care and underscored the need for citizens to voice their concerns and engage with political representatives.
As the date approaches, the “No Kings” movement remains focused on fostering a peaceful expression of dissent and rallying support for their causes. Participants are encouraged to join in solidarity for their beliefs as they prepare for these nationwide demonstrations.
Key Details of “No Kings” Protests
- Date: October 18
- Location: Nationwide, with specific rallies near Charleston, Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton, Florence, Greenville, and Columbia, SC.
- Core Principle: Nonviolence and prohibition of weapons
- Past Participation: Thousands have attended previous protests, including a building movement focused on a range of social issues
- Significance: Ongoing government shutdown impacting federal services
- Tensions: ICE operations and governmental considerations to control dissent
FAQ
What are the “No Kings” protests?
The “No Kings” demonstrations are scheduled to take place across the U.S. on October 18.
How many people are expected to attend?
The “No Kings” movement anticipates “millions” will gather in various cities nationwide.
Why are the protests being held now?
The protests are occurring amid an ongoing government shutdown that affects federal workers and services.
Are there specific locations in South Carolina for these protests?
Two rallies are specifically planned near Charleston, SC, on October 18, along with other protests in Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton, Florence, Greenville, and Columbia, SC.
What is the stance on violence and weapons at these protests?
“No Kings” emphasizes nonviolence as a core principle of their events, prohibiting weapons even if they are legally allowed.
What was the outcome of previous protests in Charleston?
Past protests in Charleston saw thousands gather, resulting in a declaration by local police of the events as “overwhelmingly peaceful.”
What issues have participants highlighted in past protests?
A diverse crowd attended the protests, voicing concerns on various issues including support for Ukraine and LGBTQ rights, and the deportation of illegal immigrants.
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Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, 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 the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
