Defend Democracy - Wichita
KANSAS ISN’T YOUR KINGDOM (peaceful protest with Defend Democracy
MONDAY’S PROTEST: LOOK AT THE MAP. MAKE A PLAN. SHOW UP FOR EACH OTHER.
The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office has released this parking and road closure map for tomorrow’s presidential visit to Heartland Credit Union Arena in Park City.
The designated protest area is marked “Free Speech Zone” in green stripes, southeast of the arena along Arena Drive. It is still a visible location, and with the number of people planning to come out, we will be seen and heard.
Are the location and access frustrating? Yes. This is not Douglas and Broadway, with public sidewalks and curbside parking. A presidential visit brings security restrictions regardless of the president’s political party. We can be frustrated with this arrangement while recognizing that those precautions are not, by themselves, a partisan statement.
Holding this event in Park City creates challenges for protesters that a more accessible Wichita location might not. This was intentional by the RNC and other organizers. Our responsibility is to channel that frustration into nonviolent, peaceful protest. Peaceful does not mean quiet.
Whether you plan to stand outside or attend the event, carry that commitment with you. We will not instigate confrontations or engage with agitators. We will respect law enforcement, follow safety directions, and do our part to ensure a safe environment for all, regardless of which side they stand on.
That does not mean “just comply,” stay quiet, or surrender our right to protest. It means we will not take the bait and let our message become a national headline about violence. We will not hand anyone an opportunity to portray us as “crazy” or “out of control.” We can be loud, determined, and unwilling to back down while remaining nonviolent.
Our commitment to everyone’s safety is not an endorsement of this administration or its supporters. It reflects the very reason we show up: to defend the rights of all Americans, including those we disagree with.
At the end of the day we are all adults, capable of making good, responsible decisions. Regardless of when you choose to arrive or how you choose to participate, please use good judgment, stay safe, and look out for one another. We each have a responsibility for our own actions and the impact they have on those around us.
Before heading out:
Review the map and road closures. Arena parking is limited; overflow parking is marked at Gilley’s. Do not assume a walking route is open or safe - follow official directions.
Make a transportation plan and carpool if you can. (The shuttle from Gilley’s may be only for those with tickets to the event – aka “attendees”)
Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes.
Bring water, snacks, signs, and energy.
Come prepared to be flexible. Access and plans may shift.
We are standing up for each other and for those who cannot join us. We are showing our neighbors that they are not alone, and showing those in power that making it challenging does not make us give up.
We will show up. We will be peaceful. And we will be heard.