There were no issues at the local “No Kings Day” rally held Saturday in the Town of Orange. The rally was hosted by the Orange, Greene and Madison County Democratic Committees and occurred from 12-2 p.m.
The peaceful protest was one of thousands of events nationwide organized by Indivisible in partnership with civic groups committed to democratic principles and non-violent action. The rallies were held in opposition to President Donald Trump’s parade in Washington, D.C. celebrating the 250th birthday of the U.S. Army as well as the president’s own birthday. Those in opposition said Trump’s personal parade funding by taxpayer dollars is a hijacking of the Army’s birthday as he impedes on rights.
Local rally organizers obtained a permit from the Town of Orange to host the event. A small group of Trump supporters stood across the street at the Confederate statue in front of the courthouse.
While the Orange rally remained civil, folks in Culpeper weren’t so fortunate. Joseph Checklick, Jr., 21 of Culpeper, was arrested and charged with reckless driving after he allegedly intentionally accelerated into a crowd of protesters holding a “No Kings Day” rally near James Madison Highway.
