No Kings’ Protests draw thousands across Cape Fear

CAPE FEAR, NC (WWAY) — Thousands gathered across southeastern North Carolina this weekend as part of a nationwide protest movement called “No Kings.” The demonstrations coincided with a military parade in Washington, D.C., marking the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.

In Leland, protesters lined Highway 17 near Waterford Village on Saturday. Ron Rothberg, a veteran and retired civil servant, joined the crowd.

“My wife said, ‘Oh I hope it rains so there won’t be a parade.’ I said there will be a parade. Those men and women will be forced to march whatever the weather conditions are. But he’ll be under cover…” Rothberg said.

Rothberg said he supports the military but believes in honoring service members in other ways.

“Fortunately, I don’t need any veterans benefits — I came out well without any issues. But there are so many veterans who do have issues,” he said.

Della Hann, the event’s organizer in Leland, said about 300 people signed up in advance but estimated the actual turnout was higher.

“This is not the America that we know and love. And that’s why we’re here — because we love America,” Hann said.

Downtown Wilmington also saw a large turnout, with people filling the sidewalks along Third Street. Volunteers and attendees estimated the crowd in the thousands, despite the rain.

“We heard they had 1,300 signups. We’re guessing there are going to be maybe 2,000 today,” said volunteer Lauren Reynolds.

“There’s certainly way more people than the 1,500 that signed up — I just came from 8th Street and it’s massive,” said Monique Ferrari, who attended the Wilmington protest.

Many protesters held signs referencing immigration policies and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, a theme seen at similar protests around the country.

Jan Ross, one of the participants, explained the movement’s name.

“He’s ruling by executive power. Congress doesn’t step in to stop him — it’s a king. He wants to be emperor of the world and they’re letting him get away with it,” Ross said.

Organizers described both Leland and Wilmington events as peaceful. In Leland, the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office helped coordinate safety. Protest leaders in Wilmington publicly thanked Police Chief Donnie Williams for maintaining order.

Protests also took place Saturday in Shallotte and Surf City, rounding out four events in the Cape Fear region.