Hundreds gather in Grand Marais for nationwide ‘No Kings’ rally

Grand Marais held a No Kings demonstration last Saturday, one of over 2,600 locations around the country.

The No Kings demonstrations are a nationwide series of peaceful rallies organized to promote democracy, and the principle that no one is above the law.

The crowd of residents and visitors was estimated to be 1,500 by Arrowhead Indivisible, which organized the event. Cook County Sheriff’s Department estimated the crowd size gathered at the courthouse to be approximately 400 people.

“Thank you for joining this rally by and for We the People,” said co-organizer Barbara Gabler. “The core principle behind all Indivisible events is a firm commitment to peaceful, non-violent action.”

Pat Campanaro led the crowd in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, as attendees waved protest signs and American flags.

“This is bigger than political disagreement,” said Campanaro. “Many people over the next month are not going to have enough money for food. For anyone who thinks they’ve gone too far, this movement is for you.”

Before leading the crowd in song, Pastor Enno Limvere lamented the mixing of religion with politics and wealth. “Our country is not liberating those who are oppressed,” said Limvere, “they’re oppressing the already-oppressed.”

The crowd marched from the Cook County courthouse to Harbor Park, where additional speakers included Margaret Hedstrom, Pete Kavanaugh, students and Vietnam veterans.

A handful of counter-protesters waved Trump flags along Highway 61 as the No Kings crowd dispersed.

Chuck Olsen October 21, 2025