Opinion: No Kings: - A Huge Success

On Saturday, March 28th, around 400 people gathered in Tracy Park on a somewhat chilly afternoon to make a statement.  It was a statement echoed in many cities across the United States as an estimated 8 million people nationwide took to the streets with even more doing so internationally.  The event was one of the No Kings protests taking place across the country.  The purpose of the event was to stand against the rise of facism and authoritarianism seemingly at its beginning stages in our nation.  The event began with some local speakers and a silent walk to witness against the atrocities of the current administration.  The walk was followed by a protest in which a diverse group of attendees lined the sidewalk chanting.  The event was co-sponsored by The Scioto County Democratic Party and Scioto Peace and Justice.

Several groups including Scioto Peace and Justice, Scioto Connect, the Scioto County Democratic Party, and others set up booths at the event with food being provided by local Mexican restaurant Maestros.  Sanctuary also set up a table at the event staffed by congregation members Joe Sigmon and Donna Dietrich along with Donna's husband Gene.  Landen Puckett also popped in from time to time to help answer questions and provide support when he was not helping lead chants.  Several people took pamphlets with information about the church and a handful signed up with their email addresses for more information.  Some people expressed interest in attending the church saying they were looking for a more progressive or affirming church.  Other Sanctuary members were in attendance or helped with the event.  Angel Harris helped staff the food and first aid booth, and others helped at the Scioto Peace and Justice booth.  Regardless of their affiliation, it felt good to be among friends, for it is both important and therapeutic in troubled times such as these to be among like-minded people.  Though not everyone in attendance was a member of our church or even any church at all, it was beautiful to unite with a common goal and the hope for a better future.