A public demonstration defending democratic values will take place Saturday in Canandaigua as part of the nationwide “No Kings” mobilization.
Organized by the advocacy group We Dissent, the local event begins at 2:00 p.m. at Atwater Park on Main Street. Marchers will proceed to Routes 5 & 20, joining similar demonstrations across the country.
“This demonstration is about exercising our fundamental First Amendment rights,” a We Dissent spokesperson said. “In America, we reject the concept of monarchy and stand firm in our commitment to democratic governance.”
The group has coordinated with law enforcement ahead of the event and informed both Mayor Palumbo and the Ontario County District Attorney’s office. Organizers also raised concerns about prior harassment, including the illegal practice of “rolling coal,” where modified diesel vehicles emit excessive black smoke to intimidate demonstrators.
“We expect law enforcement to uphold the law and protect citizens exercising their constitutional rights on No Kings Day,” the spokesperson said.
Hundreds of participants are expected to join the march. Organizers are urging attendees to remain peaceful and respectful while making their voices heard.
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