ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - A “No Kings” protest was held in Albany, part of a demonstration focused on democracy and opposition to authoritarianism.

It took place along Slappey Boulevard near the former Walgreens. Organizers began at Tift Park, where people took turns sharing why they were protesting and what the message meant to them.

Tim Wesselman with Dougherty Loves Democracy said the turnout shows many in the community are ready for change.

“The other thing is people are just getting tired of the inhumanity of where we are in the world right now. And they’re willing to tell their neighbors, no, this is not good. And so to me, this is evidence that people are willing to stand up and say no to fear no to hate, no to totalitarianism,” Wesselman said.

There were also people nearby who shared differing views, including Albany resident Justin Soriano, who said he disagrees with the “No Kings” message, but supports everyone’s right to speak out.

“I guess the whole concept of no kings is kind of stupid because we. Since when have we had a king in America? That’s just the best part about the First Amendment. I mean, as long as I don’t harass them or hurt them in any way… I can do whatever I want like that. And again, that’s what America was built on,” Soriano said.

The demonstration remained peaceful as people on both sides shared their views.

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