Organizers estimate about 200 people gathered in Sioux Center Saturday afternoon for a “No Kings” protest at Central Park, one of many demonstrations held across the country.
Throughout the event, chants of “No thrones, no crowns, no kings” echoed across the area.
The event started at the band shell, where a sound system and music were set up ahead of the program, with a local DJ providing audio for speakers. Several speakers addressed the crowd before participants later moved to line Highway 75 with signs and American flags.
Organizer Kim Van Es says the demonstration was intended to oppose actions by the Trump administration that they believe undermine democratic principles and to bring a movement seen in larger cities to Sioux County.
One of the speakers during the program, Nathaniel Ryan, a local pastor, emphasized the importance of accountability in leadership.
Attendees included a mix of longtime residents, newcomers, and families, many holding handmade signs expressing a range of political concerns.
Laura Zeurmens, who previously lived in the Twin Cities, said her past experiences made the event in Sioux Center especially meaningful.
Renae Seaman said her family’s background in military service shapes how she views leadership and accountability.
Rein Vanderhill of Alton said the moment reminded him of past eras, like the 1960s, of protest and civic engagement.
The program concluded with attendees reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, including several children who gathered on the stage holding American flags.
The event took place under windy conditions, with gusts approaching 50 miles per hour and a Red Flag Warning in effect. Passing drivers reacted in different ways—some honked in support, while others signaled disagreement.
While no law enforcement officers were visibly present during the speaking portion in the park, some were seen in the area as the demonstration moved toward the roadway. No organized counter-protest was observed during the program itself.
Organizers also had a volunteer “safety team,” as they described it, helping guide participants and maintain a nonviolent environment throughout the event.
Organizers emphasized the event’s commitment to nonviolent action and encouraged participants to remain respectful and follow local laws.
The Sioux Center protest was one of many demonstrations held nationwide on Saturday.
The demonstrations also drew reaction from outside the events themselves. Iowa gubernatorial candidate Adam Steen criticized the protests in a Facebook post Saturday, referring broadly to demonstrations taking place across the state and country. He wrote that Americans are free to protest “even when you’re dead wrong,” while calling the demonstrations unnecessary.
