Residents of Chula Vista continue to speak out against government overreach and support immigrant rights through weekly pro-democracy rallies in between the large nationwide No Kings marches, the most recent of which were held last weekend.
Janine Manchel, the South Bay organizer, has coordinated local rallies since late March. She explained the events give residents “who are outraged at the continued assault on the law, the Constitution, and the press and public’s freedoms” a chance to engage in peaceful civic advocacy. Her goal is to establish multiple corners across the cities to maintain a visible presence and encourage ongoing community involvement.
“Week after week, the community sees us out there fighting for them,” Manchel said. “We want to be seen all over the city to represent all the areas. The new people who literally walk over or drive by and then park their cars and come join us … We know there is strength in numbers.”
Attendance at the first Chula Vista No Kings march exceeded 2,200 participants on June 14. Smaller summer events drew between 250 and 500 people. Feedback from residents has been overwhelmingly positive, with community members showing support through honks, thumbs-ups, and verbal encouragement, she said.
According to organizers more than 7 million people nationwide participated in the Oct. 18 march, with 80,000 people participating throughout San Diego County.
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