Wellesley residents turnout out in big numbers as part of the 3rd major round of country-wide “No Kings” rallies since June 2025. The events started up shortly after Donald Trump was inaugurated into his second term as president in Jan. 2025.

Protesters were there to stand up against what they said were the authoritarian policies of the Trump administration, the need to protect democracy, and to speak against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

ICE raids were on the minds—and placards—of many. “It’s the violence and the lawlessness against people that I object to,” said a member of the crowd who did not want to be named.

Wellesley police were on hand and would occasionally ask people to keep the sidewalks clear.

Against the backdrop of Wellesley’s historic Town Hall, an estimated 600-700 people, some costumed, put in a showing and enjoyed the support of drivers who honked horns as they passed through the busy Washington Street strip. No counterprotests were in evidence at the event.

The peaceful protest was supported by groups including the League of Women Voters of Wellesley; Neighbors United Indivisible; Immigration Justice Group at Temple Beth Elohim; UU Wellesley Hills; World of Wellesley; Wellesley College Young Democratic Socialists; and Wellesley College Democrats.

Many “No Kings” rallies were held in the area, including in Natick, Newton, Needham, and Boston.

News reports say that this was the biggest outcry yet, with over 3,000 organized events from small towns to big cities that drew an estimated 8-9 million people.

White House officials and Trump supporters have been widely quoted as disparaging the protests and saying that they are of no concern to the administration or those who agree with the president’s policies.