On Saturday, June 14, hundreds of residents gathered in Canandaigua and Seneca Falls as part of the national “No Kings” protest movement—a coordinated response to what organizers describe as rising authoritarianism under President Donald Trump.
The demonstrations coincided with Trump’s 79th birthday and a military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. Protesters across the Finger Lakes region said the timing and symbolism were impossible to ignore.
Canandaigua demonstrators call for accountability, democracy
In Canandaigua, the march began at Atwater Park and moved toward Routes 5 & 20, with hundreds participating. The event was organized by the grassroots group We Dissent, which worked with local police to ensure safety and peaceful assembly.
“Today is about more than one person in power—it’s about protecting our country from slipping into something we don’t recognize,” said Sarah Lang, a teacher from Canandaigua who spoke with FingerLakes1.com. “We love this country, and that’s why we’re out here.”
Protesters held signs reading “No Kings in America” and “Democracy Is Not a Parade,” referencing the president’s high-profile celebration in D.C. One participant, Vietnam veteran Greg Hammond of Farmington, said the use of military imagery was disturbing.
“I served in uniform so this country wouldn’t have kings or dictators,” Hammond said. “When I see tanks on streets and soldiers used as political theater, I know it’s time to speak up.”
Organizers noted concern about previous harassment at similar events—including “rolling coal” incidents, where diesel trucks emit black exhaust near crowds. No such activity was reported during Saturday’s protest.
“This was one of the most respectful and determined groups I’ve ever marched with,” said Allison Kearney, a college student from Geneva. “People are angry, yes—but they’re also hopeful.”
Seneca Falls protest grounds itself in historic setting
Meanwhile in Seneca Falls, a crowd of several hundred gathered in front of the Women’s Rights National Historical Park. Protesters lined Fall Street and the surrounding blocks, waving flags, holding banners, and leading chants from opposite sides of the road.
“To protest here, where people once demanded a seat at the table for women, feels powerful,” said Marcus Williams of Seneca Falls. “We’re here to say we won’t accept rule by executive order, fear, or intimidation.”
Many attendees brought their children or came with neighbors and friends. Some wrote chalk messages on sidewalks with phrases like “Power to the People” and “Dissent Is Patriotic.”
“This is a defining moment,” said Lindsay McBride of Lyons. “We can either look away, or we can face it together and fight for something better.”
What’s next for the movement?
Organizers say the protests are just the beginning. In the coming weeks, they plan to host voter registration events, candidate forums, and workshops on civic engagement across Ontario and Seneca counties.
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