Aloha Reader,

For more than a year, millions of Americans have joined together around one simple message: this country has no kings. Power doesn’t belong to billionaires, strongmen, or politicians who think the rules don’t apply to them. It rests with the people, as long as we exercise it.

Tomorrow, Saturday, October 17, from 4:00-5:00 pm, we put that power to work with a peaceful sign-waving protest on Queen Kaʻahumanu Highway, south of Henry Street, behind the Mormon temple. Kona’s rally is among 2,500 No Dictators events taking place nationwide, united by a shared rallying cry: Hands off our vote, vote early.

If you haven’t yet, please sign up on Mobilize so we can plan for the crowd. Skipped the RSVP? That’s fine, just show up.

We expect a big turnout, and our team is ready. Here’s what to know before you head out.

Parking

Space is tight, so carpool if you can.

• Park at one of the nearby shopping centers with large lots and walk over.
• A grassy area between the highway and the temple is reserved for drivers with disabilities. Come early, since spots fill fast.
• That grassy lot is only reachable from the southbound lane. Heading north? Turn right at the light onto Malulani Drive toward Lowe’s, turn around, then turn left onto the highway heading south.
• Do NOT turn left into the lot from the northbound lane.
• The lot has two entrances: sedans and sports cars use the first, SUVs and trucks use the second.
• Attendants in orange vests will direct vehicles with disability placards to the spots closest to the road.

Police are in the loop

Worried about the No Parking signs near our gathering spot? As with past protests, we’ve coordinated with the Hawaiʻi Police Department (HPD). Officers know the drill by now and have no objections.

HPD raised just two concerns. No shoulder parking: keep all vehicles off the edge of the road. Stay behind the white line: the honking gets everyone fired up, but nobody steps into the traffic lane. Please remind those around you.

Staying safe shows our police and elected officials that we’re responsible neighbors, and it gives critics nothing to complain about.

Support Aloha Latinos

Tomorrow’s protest doubles as a food drive for Aloha Latinos, supporting migrant families on Hawaiʻi Island displaced and traumatized by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Cash helps most, though non-expired groceries and diapers are welcome too - see the full wish list. Pack your contribution tonight so it’s ready to go with your sign.

Final thoughts

None of us expected to fight fascism in our lifetime, yet here we are. Let’s make the best of it. Bring a sign and wear an Indivisible shirt, or go all in with a costume. Nothing spreads joy along the roadside quite like a giant frog greeting traffic.

Please review the peaceful protest protocols and keep it positive. If a driver yells or makes a rude gesture, don’t react - that’s what they want. Smile 😊 and wave 👋🏻 instead. They’ll be far more frustrated watching people have a good time.

All of us will be out there, so come find us and say hi. We love getting to know you.

See you tomorrow as we celebrate our freedom from dictators and our right to free speech.

Sending good vibes and aloha,

The Kona Indivisible leadership team
Sam, Maryellen, Yvonne, David, Yvette, Ellen, Tina Marie, Savannah, Stephen, Lisa, and Martina

P.S. Ballots have arrived, so live the motto. Drop yours in a secure drop box on your way over, or mail it today.

Want to support our work? Donate here​ ​​​​ P.S. You may also receive the Sunday newsletter from the Indivisible Hawai'i Statewide Network, which includes both national and state news. Our newsletter emphasizes county and local events and actions specific to the Kona Coast of the Big Island.

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