Hawaiʻi Protests Planned as Part of Nationwide “No Dictators” Movement

Thousands of people in Hawaiʻi are expected to participate in protests today, joining over 2,000 similar demonstrations across the country opposing what organizers call authoritarian tendencies in the current political climate.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Hawaiʻi (ACLU Hawaiʻi) and Indivisible Hawaiʻi are mobilizing demonstrators, with a main protest scheduled outside the Hawaiʻi State Capitol in Honolulu from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and additional events planned on the neighbor islands. U.S. Rep. Jill Tokuda voiced her support for the movement yesterday at a rally outside the Hawaiʻi Supreme Court, stating, “What we have here, my friends, are want-to-be kings who are going around talking and acting like a bunch of dictators. They want to rule, not serve.”

Tokuda further emphasized Hawaiʻi’s role in safeguarding democracy, calling the state an “anchor” during a time when democratic principles are “drifting.” A similar protest in June drew approximately 7,000 people statewide, with nearly 5,000 gathering at the State Capitol; organizers are aiming to surpass 10,000 participants today. Concerns over potential threats to democratic institutions have been rising following several controversial policy decisions and statements from the current administration – you can learn more about the state of American democracy at Brookings.

ACLU Hawaiʻi Director Salmah Rizvi stressed the importance of continued engagement beyond protesting, urging citizens to closely monitor and participate in state legislative processes. The protests reflect a broader national movement challenging perceived overreach of executive power and advocating for the preservation of democratic norms; for more information on the ACLU’s work in Hawaiʻi, visit their website.

Officials anticipate a peaceful demonstration and encourage participants to remain informed and engaged in civic duties moving forward.