By Pat Trevino
June 14, 2025
VICTORIA, TX—Members of the Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women joined demonstrators in Victoria on June 14 as part of the nationwide No Kings Day of Defiance. The protest, held at Pattie Dodson Health Center, was one of many across Texas and the country, aimed at standing against authoritarianism and billionaire-first politics and the militarization of the country. It’s aim is to reassert the fundamental values of democracy, equality, and civil liberties.
The No Kings movement, backed by a coalition of civic and grassroots organizations, seeks to push back against policies perceived as favoring billionaire interests over everyday citizens. Organizers emphasized that the protest was bipartisan, welcoming all who believe in the U.S. Constitution and the principle that no individual is above the law.
Participants in Victoria gathered with signs, music, and speeches, echoing similar demonstrations in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and other major Texas cities. The Lavaca & DeWitt County Democratic Women, known for their advocacy efforts, stood alongside fellow protesters to voice concerns over political trends they see as undermining democratic institutions.
The No Kings protests coincided with Flag Day and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary, as well as a military parade in Washington, D.C., which organizers criticized as a display of political dominance. The movement has gained traction in recent weeks, fueled by reports of federal crackdowns on nonviolent demonstrations and concerns over civil liberties.
Despite the somber backdrop of the recent political violence in Minnesota, organizers reaffirmed their commitment to peaceful protest. “This is about unity, not division,” one demonstrator in Victoria stated. “We are here to remind our leaders that democracy belongs to the people.”
With protests spanning the nation, the No Kings movement continues to draw attention to issues of governance, civil rights, and political accountability. Whether the momentum will translate into policy changes remains to be seen, but for those in Victoria, the message was clear: democracy must be defended.