For Immediate Release: April 1, 2026 President Julie Kent, Florida National Organization for Women (FL NOW)
Florida is emerging as one of the strongest centers of participation in the nationwide No Kings movement, with peaceful demonstrations growing in size, energy, and diversity across the state. From Miami to Jacksonville, Floridians are uniting to affirm a simple, shared belief: democracy thrives when people have a voice — and NO ONE should hold unchecked power.
“Floridians are showing up for each other,” said Julie Kent, President of Florida NOW. “These protests are joyful, determined, and deeply democratic. People from every background are standing together to say that our freedoms matter and our voices matter. We are all saying we can’t and won’t live with this President and this Congress and their actions, nor this Governor, nor this Legislature and their actions.”
Major Florida Protest Sites
Jacksonville – James Weldon Johnson Park
Veterans, teachers, and community organizers highlighted civil liberties and community safety, drawing strong turnout from historically Black neighborhoods.
Miami – Government Center
A multiracial, intergenerational crowd filled the plaza, with strong participation from Puerto Rican, Cuban, Haitian, and Central American communities, alongside LGBTQ+ and reproductive‑rights organizations.
Orlando – Lake Eola Park
One of the largest gatherings in the state, with youth leaders, labor groups, civil rights organizations, and families marching together. Art builds, music, and voter‑engagement tables created a vibrant, community‑centered atmosphere.
Tallahassee – Capitol Steps
Students from FSU, FAMU, and TCC marched in solidarity, joined by statewide advocacy groups calling for transparency, accountability, and constitutional protections.
Tampa – Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park
Students, faith leaders, and immigrant‑rights groups led bilingual chants and speeches, emphasizing unity and shared values.
St. Petersburg – City Hall
Environmental justice groups, families, and coastal community advocates created a welcoming, family‑friendly demonstration with art, music, and community tables.
A Movement Rooted in Hope and Community Power
“These protests are not about fear — they’re about hope,” Debbie Deland, VP FL NOW said. “Floridians are coming together across race, age, gender, and background to defend the values that make our communities strong: fairness, dignity, and freedom both in our State and across the country. We will not be silenced in the face of the destruction of our democracy and the assaults on the marginalized members of our communities.”
Organizers report growing volunteer lists, increased student involvement, and new partnerships with faith, labor, and civic groups. Art builds, teach‑ins, and sign‑making events are drawing record participation.
“People are stepping into their power,” Deland added. “This is what democracy looks like — neighbors showing up for one another and refusing to be silent. We will not stop until the current regimes are gone and held accountable.”
Florida NOW Will Continue to Support Community‑Led Action
Florida NOW encourages Floridians to stay engaged, attend local events, and support grassroots organizers working to protect civil liberties and democratic participation.
“Floridians are resilient,” Kent said. “We will keep building, keep organizing, and keep showing up for the future we deserve.”













