Community engagement was on full display this past weekend in New Paltz, where a regional No Kings Day rally drew between 550 and 600 attendees.

“We had about 400 people last year, so seeing that number grow this much, it’s encouraging,” said Pierrette Farber, one of the rally’s organizers. “It tells us people are paying attention and want to be part of something.”

The event was part of a coordinated series of rallies across the Hudson Valley, with earlier and later gatherings held in Gardiner and Kingston. With attendance shifted throughout the day as participants traveled between locations, but the strong turnout in New Paltz reflected growing local engagement.

“It was really impactful,” said Farber. “I loved seeing everyone out there. The increase in attendance shows that more people are ready to get involved.”

The rally featured a lineup of speakers, performers, and community leaders, underscoring a wide range of local and regional voices. The program was organized in part by Susan, a newly added member of the leadership team for Indivisible New Paltz, who was recognized as a “fearless advocate” for the community.

The event opened with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Bill Murray, followed by remarks from local leaders and advocates, including Farber, Kitty Brown, and Jen Metzger.

Other attendees included State Senator Michele Hinchey who addressed the crowd on issues including food security, climate policy, and protections for immigrant communities. County Comptroller March Gallagher spoke about the importance of fiscal leadership in safeguarding essential services such as healthcare, housing, and infrastructure.

Additional speakers included Jennifer Estrada, Noah Daube-Valois, and Debra Clinton, each bringing perspectives from grassroots organizing, student activism, and public service.

The rally also highlighted the arts as a form of activism. Performances included music from the Tin Horn Uprising and a set by Hudson Valley singer-songwriter Roseanne Fino, who uses her work to support local food pantries. Ulster County Poet Laureate Mike Jurkovic closed out the speaker lineup with a reading.

For organizers, the rally represents more than a single gathering, it is part of a broader effort to build civic engagement. Many involved, including Farber, recently came to activism.

“A year and a half ago, I had never even been to a protest,” Farber said. “Now, I’m helping organize them. It shows how quickly people can step up when they feel something is at stake.”

The group continues to host regular events around town and emphasizes that participation can take many forms, from attending rallies to contacting elected officials or volunteering locally.

“One protest isn’t going to change everything,” Farber said. “But building a community of people who are informed and willing to act, that’s how change happens.”

According to Farber, safety and accessibility were key priorities to hosting this protest. Trained marshals were present throughout the event, team members were trained on how to handle conflicts and organizers coordinated with local law enforcement to ensure a peaceful environment.

Looking ahead, that same spirit of engagement is extending into local politics. Farber shared plans to run for county legislature next year, viewing the decision as a natural continuation of her advocacy work.

“I keep telling people to do what they can,” they said. “This is something I can do. Activism isn’t just showing up, it’s taking action in whatever way you’re able.”

Farber said rallies like this one signal a strengthening connection of engaged residents, who not only share concerns but also have a commitment to showing up and being heard.

“There are so many opportunities right here in our community,” they said. “Go with a friend, find something local, and take that first step. Every action matters.”