I had never participated in a protest march—until this past weekend. Despite growing up in the 1960s, a time defined by civil rights marches and anti-Vietnam War demonstrations, I always remained a supportive observer. I admired the courage of those who took to the streets, but I stayed on the sidelines.

That changed with the “No Kings” march.

With the very real possibility that our democracy is on the verge of collapse—if it hasn’t already begun to unravel—I could no longer remain an observer. Donald Trump’s ongoing assault on the Constitution, his open contempt for the rule of law, and his thinly veiled authoritarian ambitions finally pushed me over the edge. This time, I made a sign, put on my walking shoes, and joined the crowd.

And what an exhilarating experience it was!

To stand shoulder to shoulder with a sea of like-minded people—young and old, loud and quiet, angry and hopeful—was profoundly moving. The energy was electric, the message clear: we will not sit idly by and watch our democracy be taken away from us. Not now, not ever. 

It took Trump’s brazen disregard for our founding principles to turn me from a supportive observer into a committed participant. But I’m glad I made the leap. Democracy doesn’t defend itself—it needs all of us, in whatever way we can show up.

Last weekend, I showed up. And I won’t stop now. Next protest march? I’m there!

Photo/NBCSanDiego/SkyRanger7