October 11, 2025 Activism, IUSC Brief

No Kings Day 2: You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers

Not sure what to bring, how to get there, where to park, what to expect? Here are helpful Q&As about the October 18th No Kings rally and march at the SC State House in Columbia, 1:30-4pm.

byIUSC Staff

Big day ahead, y’all! The No Kings 2: South Carolina Unites event in our state capital is coming up soon. This is your chance to stand strong with thousands of fellow citizens calling for democracy, justice, and accountability. This article breaks down why it’s worth the drive, how to get there safely, and what to expect once you arrive.

Ready to make history with us? Register here to pledge your attendance.

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Why travel to Columbia instead of gathering in my home town? That’s really inconvenient.

We get it—traveling to Columbia takes time, gas money, and planning. But there are good reasons we’re all coming together at the SC State House for No Kings Day instead of holding dozens of smaller local rallies. Yes, it’s a bit inconvenient. But democracy often is. And when people from all over the state stand shoulder to shoulder in front of the state house, that inconvenience turns into power.

Please consider setting aside your comfort zone for one day and experience what it’s like to join thousands of energized compatriots.

We actually wrote an entire article about this (“No Kings 2 on October 18: All Roads Lead to Columbia”), but here it is in a nutshell:

Power in numbers, visibility in one place. When thousands of people converge on the capital, it makes national and statewide news. Lawmakers, the media, and the public can’t ignore a crowd that fills the state house grounds. A unified presence shows that South Carolinians from every corner of the state are standing together for democracy—and that’s far more powerful than a hundred smaller gatherings scattered around.

Symbolic and strategic impact. Columbia is where laws are written and where decisions that affect all of us are made. Showing up there, in person, sends the clearest possible message: we are watching, we are united, and we demand accountability.

Community and solidarity. Coming together in one place builds energy, morale, and connection across chapters and organizations. You’ll meet fellow activists, share ideas, and go home inspired to strengthen your local work.

We’re helping with logistics. IUSC and other groups are organizing carpools, buses, and rideshares to make it easier for everyone to get there. Read on!

Will protestors be safe? What safety measures will be in place that day?

Yes, safety is a top priority! This is a peaceful, lawful demonstration, organized in coordination with local authorities and community groups across SC to ensure that everyone can make their voices heard safely.

That said, all public protests carry some level of risk. Here’s what we’re doing—and what you can do—to stay safe:

We’ve secured the necessary permits and provided notice to Columbia police and state house security.
Volunteer marshals will be on site to help direct participants, de-escalate conflicts, and communicate with organizers throughout the day.
Legal and first-aid teams will be available for anyone who needs assistance.
Participants can help by remaining peaceful, following marshal and organizer directions, and avoiding confrontations with counter-protesters or police.
Know your rights: Peaceful protest on public grounds is protected under the First Amendment. Staying on public property, obeying lawful instructions, and keeping pathways open helps protect everyone’s rights and safety.

Please come prepared: bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes; stay with a buddy; and be aware of your surroundings. Together, we can send a strong, unified message against authoritarianism—safely and powerfully.

Is it OK to bring my kids?

Of course that’s for you to decide, but children and teens frequently attend our protests in the Upstate. No Kings 2 is a peaceful, family-friendly event, and children are welcome to attend with a parent or guardian. We expect many families to be there—this movement is about shaping the future our kids will inherit, and their presence reminds everyone why, exactly, we’re fighting authoritarianism. We encourage families to help make the day a true celebration of community power.

That said, please plan ahead to keep little ones comfortable and safe:

Stay together at all times, and identify a meet-up spot in case you get separated.
Dress for the weather—Columbia in October can be sunny and warm or windy and cold, so keep an eye on weather reports and plan accordingly.
Bring water, snacks, ear protection, and small activities (like drawing pads or signs they can decorate).
Keep kids away from counter-protests or tense interactions—our marshals and peacekeepers will help direct everyone to calmer areas if needed.
Explain what’s happening: this is a great opportunity to teach children about democracy, civic engagement, and peaceful protest.

Are there any accommodations for people who are disabled or aren’t very mobile?

The statehouse grounds are flat and have wide, paved walkways throughout. We will also have ASL interpreters for the speeches but if you need a special accommodation please email NK2@IndivisibleUpstateSC.org and we will do our best to meet that need.

I’ve heard that I shouldn’t register because signing up to attend a protest may put me at risk somehow. Is that true?

We understand why you may worry, but registering for No Kings 2 is safe, optional, and very helpful to organizers. Here’s what to know:

The real risk of not registering is being uninformed. Registration helps us communicate real-time safety and logistical updates—like weather, route changes, or road closures—so everyone stays coordinated and secure.

Peaceful protest is a constitutional right. Attending or signing up for a permitted event like this does not expose you to legal risk. These are public actions protected under the First Amendment.

Registration is voluntary. It’s totally fine to simply show up on the day of the rally without registering, but knowing an approximate crowd size really helps organizers plan logistics.

Your information is protected, and it’s possible to minimize digital traces. We collect only what’s needed to send updates about the event such as parking details, schedule changes, or weather alerts. Your data is never shared or sold. If you’re still concerned, use only your first name or use a non-primary email address for updates.

Uh oh, I heard there are no seats left on the bus! Is there a way to hitch a ride with someone traveling from the Upstate?

Yes, there’s a carpool option! We know not everyone can drive, Columbia traffic can be a challenge, and honestly, road trips are better with a buddy. Riders may sign up for a vehicle or join the waitlist to be connected with a driver:

Make sure you join the correct carpool page for your area. Drivers and passengers may agree on pickup locations. In Greenville, a suggested meetup location is Verdae Village near Office Depot (Laurens Rd & Verdae Blvd) since that’s where the bus will leave from.

Everyone participating must review and agree to the Carpool Code of Conduct.

Are you a rider or potential rider with questions? Please email NK2@IndivisibleUpstateSC.org.

I have space in my vehicle for people to ride. How can I let folks know?

Drivers may sign up at one of the following links to be connected with riders. Make sure you sign up for the correct city. You and your passengers may agree on any safe pickup location. In Greenville, we suggest Verdae Village near Office Depot (Laurens Rd & Verdae Blvd) since that’s where the bus will leave from, but that’s not required.

Everyone participating must review and agree to the Carpool Code of Conduct.

Are you willing to drive but have questions? Please email NK2@IndivisibleUpstateSC.org.

I’m lucky and got a seat on the bus before it sold out. What do I need to know?

We are meeting in Greenville at Verdae Village near Office Depot at the corner of Laurens Rd & Verdae Blvd. Riders should be there no later than 10:15am—before is better. The bus leaves promptly at 10:30am. We cannot wait for latecomers. There will be water available but bring snacks or jackets or whatever else you may need for the ride. Approximate ETA in Columbia is 12:30pm.

After the rally and march in Columbia, riders should meet back at the bus at 4:30pm. It leaves for Greenville at 5pm and should arrive back at Office Depot around 7pm.

I’m driving! Where do I park?

On-street parking is available in the entire downtown district. Street parking meters near the State House are free on Saturdays because enforcement ends at 6pm on Friday and resumes on Monday. Always check for signage, though, in case there are exceptions.

The two parking decks nearest the Statehouse are located at 1100 Lady Street and 1100 Washington Street. All public parking garages include accessible reserved parking nearest elevators. Here’s an interactive public parking map for the city of Columbia. We also found this great resource at parkopedia.com.

May I bring my pet?

For everyone’s safety and comfort—including your pet’s—please leave animals at home. Large crowds, heat, traffic, noise, and long hours on pavement can be stressful and even dangerous for our furry family members. The march route and gathering areas aren’t designed for pets, and shade will be limited.

Service animals (on a leash no longer than 6 ft.) may attend the event.

What types of bags are allowed?

In 2025, the SC Department of Public Safety's Bureau of Protective Services—the entity responsible for ensuring the safety and security of citizens, employees, and state officials who visit and work within the State Capitol Complex—implemented a “clear bag” policy during some gatherings.

IUSC recommends that, in case this happens on October 18th, each person should assume ONE approved clear bag during the event:

Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags or backpacks of any size
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar)

Exceptions may be made for diaper bags, medically necessary bags, and equipment bags for credentialed members of the media. However, additional screening may be required for entry.

Should I pack a lunch? Are there spots nearby to purchase food?

Sure, bring lunch with you to save time, or arrive extra early and visit a nearby restaurant (click here for options).

I want to bring signs or flags! Are there any size or construction guidelines/limitations? I’d like to comply with any Columbia city regulations.

Go for it! Creative, clear messages and flags help draw attention and look great in photos. A few tips:

Attend our Greenville sign-making party on October 15. Click here for all the details. Please register in advance so we know how many to expect.
Avoid sticks, poles, or anything that could be viewed as unsafe by security. Corrugated cardboard poles are generally acceptable.
Keep it simple. Short, readable messages are best (“Protect Democracy,” “Power to the People,” “No Kings, No Dictators,” etc.).
Use lightweight materials. Cardboard or poster board is perfect.
Waterproof if possible. A little tape or plastic wrap can protect your message if there’s rain.

Do I have to bring signs?

Nope! Signs are totally optional. If making signs is a stressor for you, just come, be present, and make some noise with fellow rallygoers! Just showing up—standing, marching, listening, chanting, and supporting others—sends a powerful message all by itself.

As a side note, we almost always have protestors who bring extra signs to events like this, so if you prefer to travel light, just come as you are and ask around if there are extra signs you can carry.

Should I bring anything else with me?

Bring anything you may need for a typical day trip out—water, snacks, comfortable shoes, medication, chairs if needed, portable phone charger, your signs of course, sun protection (hat, sunscreen sunglasses—the area has limited shade), rain gear if necessary, and any other necessities. Extra bottled water will be available on site.

What types of possessions are NOT allowed at the state house?

Weapons or anything that could be mistaken for a weapon (sticks, poles, sharp objects).
Large coolers, alcohol, or glass containers.
Drones.
Laser pointers.

Since SC is an “open carry” state now, why isn’t it OK to bring weapons?

Weapons of any type are not allowed on the state house grounds. The SC Constitutional Carry/Second Amendment Preservation Act of 2024 lists several places into which weapons—open or concealed—may not be carried, and the state house grounds is one of them. Law enforcement will enforce this rule, and anyone carrying a weapon will be asked to leave or may face penalties under state law.

No weapons. No exceptions.

Our movement is grounded in nonviolence and mutual respect. We’re showing the strength of peaceful, collective action—not intimidation or force. You can read IUSC’s full Commitment to Nonviolence here.

What time should I plan to arrive on Oct 18th? I don’t want to miss anything.

Considering traffic and parking, it's best to plan on arriving in Columbia at least by 1pm, if not before.

Is there a meetup time/location in Columbia for IUSC members to connect?

As of October 10, there are no plans to host official meetups, but swing by the Indivisible Upstate SC table at the rally. We’ll tell you what we know!

Even if you don’t connect with a larger group on site, we recommend that you attend with a friend or small group and agree on a meetup point in case you get separated. Don’t lose your buddies!

Tell me more about the rally that starts at 1:30pm.

Head for the front of the SC State House facing Gervais Street. Community leaders, knowledgeable activists, and other expert speakers will talk about issues facing our country. There will be games and activities. Tables will be set up by community aid organizations and statewide activist organizations.

Around 2:15pm, instructions will be given for those who wish to march. If you do not wish or are unable to walk, please do not attempt the march and simply stay on the state house grounds where rally fun will continue. Activities will wind down around 4pm. Please help keep the grounds beautiful and put trash in receptacles as you leave.

Tell me about the march. Where will it start? What is the distance? Will it end back at the State House?

The march begins and ends at the state house from the rally location facing Gervais Street. Total there-and-back distance is 2.2 miles, and we expect it to take about 1 to 1.5 hours. There are some slight hills along the way, but it will be an easy walk for most.

We’ll walk down Assembly Street and pause about five minutes to let the crowd gather and share a few remarks. From there, we’ll continue to the governor’s mansion for a 20-minute stop to voice concerns and lead some chants. We’ll then retrace our route and stop in front of the Strom Thurmond building for another short rally before returning to the State House.

Are there public restrooms nearby?

There are public restrooms at the state house. There are also two businesses nearby that have offered their facilities: Strange Times, a vintage shop at 1224 Pendleton St., and The Nickelodeon at 1607 Main St.

Along the march route, the city unfortunately does not allow us to place portable toilets, but there should be some existing ones stationed on the way to the governor’s mansion.