No Kings Day Protest Draws Hundreds in Bethlehem

AJ Lenner | Writer

Photo Credit: Markus Spiske - Pexels

On Saturday Oct. 18, hundreds gathered in Bethlehem for the “No Kings Day” protest, a demonstration aimed at defending democracy and opposing political autocracy in the United States. The event was organized by local activist Brooke McDermott and the group Indivisible Lehigh County, bringing together community members to march and exercise their First Amendment rights.

McDermott, who serves on the executive board of the Lehigh County Democratic Committee, said her involvement in activism began years ago. 

“I’ve always been pretty political since my college days,” she said. “When Trump was elected, I decided I had to get involved. Jake Fien found me and made me the lead organizer for Indivisible.”

This year’s protest, supported by the Bethlehem mayor, J. William Reynolds, began at the Rose Garden and continued through the streets to Hero Plaza at City Hall. The previous Bethlehem No Kings events have drawn between 3,000 and 5,000 attendees. McDermott emphasized that the rallies are peaceful by design. 

“We’re exercising our First Amendment rights because they’re under attack,” she said. “Our protests are always framed around de-escalation. We’re anti-conflict and anti-violence.”

The event also featured guest speaker Reverend Dr. Greg Evans, who addressed the crowd about unity and civic responsibility. McDermott hopes the demonstration will inspire younger generations to become more politically active.

“Indivisible always has a place for Gen Z voters and activists,” McDermott said. “Older generations can’t always speak for us. The future never looked very bright for Gen Z, but if they get involved, they can make it better.” 

As the march concluded at City Hall, attendees chanted for democracy, equality, and accountability. Reminders that in Bethlehem, the spirit of civic engagement remains strong.