Thousands of protesters gathered in downtown Honolulu on March 28 for the third “No Dictators” Day rally – an offshoot of the national “No Kings” protests adapted to respect Hawaiian heritage, organized in response to President Donald Trump’s actions both locally and internationally.
The demonstration continued despite a bomb threat reported just over an hour before the planned 11 a.m. start, prompting authorities to evacuate the Hawaiʻi State Capitol and surrounding streets.
Demonstrators were redirected to the lawn of ʻIolani Palace, where they continued protesting as organizers awaited clearance to return.
At about 1 p.m., officials deemed the area safe, and protesters resumed the rally at its original location. Marchers moved through and around the building, waving signs and chanting slogans criticizing the Trump administration and broader concerns over executive power.
Families, students, kūpuna, and longtime activists filled the space. Some signs drew historical comparisons, while others used satire and sharp political humor to make their point.
Though disrupted, the demonstration maintained its momentum throughout the afternoon. For many in attendance, the message was clear: the act of showing up, despite uncertainty, was itself a statement.
Demonstrators posed for a photo of their sign. (Zane Castillo)Following the bomb scare, protestors made their way to ʻIolani Palace to continue to make their voices heard. (Zane Castillo)Armed with a microphone and speaker, this demonstrator spoke in English and Spanish condemning the Trump administrationʻs immigration policies. (Zane Castillo)
President Donald J. Trump is made into a ʻJoker.’ (Zane Castillo)Demonstrators at the ʻNo Dictators Dayʻ protest carry signs comparing President Donald J. Trump to King George III. (Zane Castillo)Many signs displayed cartoon characterizations of President Trump. (Zane Castillo)
The American flag is waved in front of ʻIolani Palace en route back to the Capitol. (Zane Castillo)As the crowds returned to the Hawaiian State Capitol, hundreds gathered to listen to the event speakers. Live with conversation, laughs, and songs, the demonstrators made a point to cultivate hope. (Zane Castillo)Inside the busiest parts of the crowd, a sign stating “You know ITʻS BAD when the introverts SHOW UP.” (Zane Castillo)
Immigration policies remain a central focus of criticism against the Trump administration. (Zane Castillo)After having to evacuate the Capitol, the UH College Democrats had to leave their table and materials behind, during which, one of their tents was damaged. (Zane Castillo)
Protestors returned to the Hawaiian State Capitolʻs streets and grass. (Zane Castillo)
Standing on the curb waving their signs at the passing vehicles, demonstrators smiled and cheered as cars honked their horns as they passed. (Zane Castillo)Several signs aimed at longer explanations for their discontent. (Zane Castillo)Highlighting the call to break unjust laws and inspired by the words of the late civil rights activist and congressman John Lewis, the sign reads: Get in GOOD TROUBLE NECESSARY TROUBLE. (Zane Castillo)“GIRL, HOLD MY EARRINGS.” (Zane Castillo)
The rally hosted speakers within the Hawaiian State Capitol. (Zane Castillo)Crowds of demonstrators line South Beretania Street following the re-opening of the Capitol. (Zane Castillo)
A homemade sign that reads: “DEFUND ICE: A PRETTI GOOD JOB!” referencing Alex Pretti, an ICE nurse who was killed during an altercation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. (Zane Castillo)Military helicopters soared overhead, stoking murmurs among the crowds. (Zane Castillo)
