This Weekend in SLC: No Kings Returns with a Focus on Safety and Joy

Recent months in Utah have been marred by violent incidents, including two high-profile shootings during rallies. In June, a “No Kings” march ended tragically with a fatal shooting. More recently, the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk took place at Utah Valley University, further raising concerns regarding protest safety.

This Weekend in SLC: No Kings Returns with a Focus on Safety and Joy

This weekend’s “No Kings” rally in Salt Lake City aims to promote unity and joy amid the backdrop of these recent violent events. Scheduled for Saturday, October 18, at the Utah State Capitol, the organizers are prioritizing safety while fostering a sense of community. Jamie Carter, a volunteer from Salt Lake Indivisible, emphasized the need for a positive atmosphere.

Addressing Safety Concerns

The June 14 incident involved a safety volunteer mistakenly firing at a crowd, resulting in the death of bystander Afa Ah Loo. The shooting occurred when the volunteer perceived a man, Arturo Gamboa, carrying a rifle as a threat. Following the tragedy, Salt Lake Indivisible has thoroughly evaluated their safety measures.

• Gamboa did not fire his weapon during the march.
• No charges have been filed related to the shooting since June.
• Gamboa’s attorney stated that the rifle was unloaded at the time.

In tandem with the rally, the organizing group has planned various activities, including a dance party featuring local musicians and a comedian. This aims to create a festive atmosphere that resonates with their message of community and resilience.

Collaboration with Authorities

The event is in collaboration with organizations like Green Wave and Our Revolution. Salt Lake Indivisible has been proactive in conducting walkthroughs with local law enforcement. Both the Salt Lake City Police and Utah Highway Patrol will be present during the rally, and the organizers have secured appropriate permits.

To ensure everyone’s safety, the team of volunteers has participated in an extensive four-hour training. This included role-playing scenarios aimed at de-escalation techniques. They have also requested that attendees refrain from bringing weapons, reinforcing the non-violent message of the event.

A Message of Community Empowerment

Carter articulated a clear vision for the event, stating, “Our main goal is to bring together people in community. No one can steal our joy.” The rally seeks to remind participants of the power of collective action and the absence of oppressive leadership: “We have no kings in America.”

In light of recent events, the response from participants has been positive, with a focus on healing and togetherness. This weekend’s rally stands as a testament to the community’s resilience and dedication to creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all.