8,000 March Through Pasadena in Powerful ‘No Kings’ Protest for Justice

In a sweeping and passionate display of solidarity, more than 8,000 people flooded Colorado Blvd. in Pasadena, transforming the city’s historic corridor into a living, moving call for justice during the “No Kings” National Day of Peaceful Protest.

By Rena Kurlander

They came from across Pasadena and neighboring communities—some having already marched earlier in Altadena and Monrovia before joining the main demonstration. From Pasadena City College to City Hall, the crowd stretched for blocks, growing as supporters joined from sidewalks and intersections. By the time marchers reached Centennial Square, roughly 500 people were already waiting, ready to greet them with energy and anticipation.

Among the crowd were young voices determined to be heard.

“We need to come together and make sure this stops,” said Kandice. “I think young people need to realize we share a common enemy,” added Jezlyn.

“I wanted to represent young women like me,” said Javron. “We need to show up, stand up, and fight for what’s right.”

Another participant emphasized the importance of civic engagement: “I gotta tell you, there are a lot of reasons I’m out here. This is why, more than ever, we need to exercise our right to free speech.”

Leading the procession was the vibrant NDLON bus, complete with a live band whose music echoed down the boulevard, setting the tone for a day defined by both resistance and celebration. Organizers worked alongside Pasadena police, closing streets and redirecting traffic to ensure the march unfolded safely and smoothly.

At City Hall, the atmosphere was electric.

As marchers poured into the square, the NextDoors band struck up a rhythm that drew applause and cheers from the swelling crowd. Handmade signs filled the air, some clever and humorous, others stark and direct, many deeply thought-provoking, painting a vivid portrait of a community engaged and unafraid to speak out.

Speakers took to the stage, each voice adding urgency and humanity to the cause. Pastor Tim Rich of All Saints Church energized the audience, calling for unity and encouraging attendees to send greetings to fellow demonstrators in Los Angeles and Minneapolis. He urged people not just to protest, but to connect, with one another and with the broader movement unfolding nationwide.

Congresswoman Judy Chu addressed the crowd fresh from casting a vote against ICE funding, drawing strong support from attendees. Youth voices also rang out, including drummers from All Saints and members of Peace Players, whose performances underscored the gathering’s intergenerational spirit.

Perhaps the most emotional moment came from Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo. Sharing a deeply personal story, he recalled growing up in a built-out two-car garage with his parents. He described an empty Folgers coffee can that held his family’s most important documents, some cash, and a list of phone numbers, items he was told to grab and take to neighbors if his parents didn’t return home.

“No child should have to go through that again,” he said, his words resonating across the crowd in a moment of collective reflection and resolve.

As the event drew to a close, music once again took center stage. The crowd dispersed to the powerful refrain of “We Are Not Afraid,” leaving behind a sense of unity that lingered in the afternoon air.

Across the region, similar, if smaller, gatherings echoed Pasadena’s message. In Altadena, dozens of residents, including many seniors, gathered at El Molino Avenue and Alameda Street, while hundreds more assembled near the burned remains of Altadena Community Church. Monrovia saw more than 500 people fill Library Park, while crowds in South Pasadena, Eagle Rock, Monterey Park, Alhambra’s Renaissance Plaza, and Alhambra Park added their voices to the growing chorus.

The Pasadena march was part of a broader national—and global—movement. Organizers reported millions participating across the United States, with solidarity demonstrations taking place worldwide. Many cited rising global tensions, including the war in Iran and increasing fuel prices, as factors driving people into the streets.

But in Pasadena, the message was clear and deeply personal: a call for dignity, justice, and a future where no one lives in fear.

In a powerful show of unity, Pasadena came together, marching, singing, and declaring: there are no kings here.

– Altadena

– South Pasadena

– Monrovia

– Alhambra

– Eagle Rock

– Bonus