ARVADA, Colo. (KDVR) — A national protest movement called “No Kings” is expected to draw thousands of people to the streets this Saturday, including in Arvada.

The grassroots effort, which organizers say is focused on pushing back against government overreach and systemic injustice, will include more than 2,000 events across the country. One of them will be held in downtown Arvada, where residents gathered this week to prepare.

The local meeting was hosted by Arvadans for Progressive Action and featured national activist and author Dr. Paul Zeitz. The group discussed how everyday Americans can engage more directly in shaping democracy through citizen-led assemblies and local action.

“We’re trying to invite Coloradans—Democrats, Republicans, Independents—and disenfranchised voters to come together and convene a state citizens’ assembly with their recommendations,” Zeitz said.

For organizers like Jim Crider, the goal is to show that civic engagement isn’t limited to big cities like Denver.

“I think the more places that Americans can see that there’s concerned people, it helps Arvadans know ‘I’m not alone,’” Crider said. “If you’re concerned about what the U.S. government is doing, it lets our representatives know—and it’s not just bright blue Denver. It’s purple Arvada. Small towns across Colorado are having events on Saturday.”

Organizers say they’ve been in contact with the city and local law enforcement about Saturday’s protest, and that they expect a peaceful event focused on listening, community-building, and civic expression.

The “No Kings” protest is part of a broader national push led by activists and community leaders, many of whom are encouraging participants to write letters, call representatives, and reimagine what democratic participation can look like in 2024 and beyond.