October 25, 2025
In San Jose, thousands of voices rose up under a single slogan: “No Kings .” The mobilization, part of a national day of peaceful protests, gathered in St. James Park in downtown San Jose and from there marched to City Hall, through some downtown streets, and back to the park.
“The people united will never be defeated,” chanted the protesters as they waved banners with phrases like “No Kings, Yes on 50” —referring to an election measure that seeks to redraw congressional districts to ensure fairer representation.
The peaceful “No Kings” protest march gathered at St. James Park in downtown San Jose and from there marched to City Hall. Photo: Rossana Drumond, Alianza News.
The atmosphere was festive, family-oriented, and civic. Parents pushed strollers adorned with American flags, and elderly people wore handcrafted hats emblazoned with messages of freedom.
The “No Kings” march was also notable for the participation of several local representatives. Council members and community leaders from different districts of San Jose joined the march, united by a single message: democracy belongs to the people.
The demonstration gathered at St. James Park in downtown San Jose. Photo: Rossana Drumond, Alianza News.
Some of the officials present included: Pamela Campos, councilwoman for District 2; David Cohen, councilman for District 4; and Anthony Tordillo, representative for District 3.
Councilwoman Pamela Campos, one of the most charismatic figures on the City Council, delivered one of the most moving speeches of the day. “We are here for our health, our human lives, our democracy. This is a defining moment. We cannot remain silent while the future of our children is jeopardized. The course of our nation depends on each and every one of us. Community strength can build a brighter future for San Jose and for all of America,” she said.
For his part, Anthony Tordillo reminded everyone that the fight for social justice doesn’t end in the streets. “Resistance isn’t just about shouting, it’s about building. Faced with government cruelty, let’s respond with compassion. Faced with abuse, let’s respond with organization,” he said to applause.
The council member mentioned Measure A, a local initiative that seeks to protect the public health system and prevent cuts that would affect the most vulnerable communities. He added, “Defending democracy also means taking care of our hospitals, our schools, our neighborhoods. We cannot allow power to be concentrated in the hands of a few. The fight against injustice knows no bounds. Every act of solidarity rebuilds this country through empathy and unity.”
Representative Sam Licardo, from California’s 16th District, appealed to collective memory. “Our memory is calling to a new generation. True power doesn’t come from elites, but from ordinary people.” His words resonated with the attendees as a reminder that political participation must transcend election cycles and become a daily commitment.
The superhero groups present at the march. Photo: Rossana Drumond, Alianza News
The slogan “No Kings” emerged as a direct response to what organizers described as the “growing authoritarianism” of the federal government. The message was not one of hate, but of peaceful resistance: a call to protect the Constitution, civil rights, and the diversity that defines the United States. Speeches and banners repeatedly featured messages in favor of equality, justice, and freedom of the press.
The “No Kings” march in San Jose was much more than a protest. It was a lesson in civic responsibility and a reaffirmation of citizen power. And so, amidst songs, lights, and embraces, San Jose became, for one day, the heart of democracy.
