Cheyenne Sees Continued Demonstrations as Residents Rally for Change

A growing number of Cheyenne residents gathered once again outside the Wyoming State Capitol over the weekend to voice their concerns about the actions of President Donald Trump and state lawmakers, Gillette News Record reports.

The protest, held Saturday, drew an estimated 200 to 300 participants and was one of several “No Kings” demonstrations taking place across the state and nation.

The event was organized by Joe Ramirez, a local community activist who has been leading protests since Trump began his second term in January. Ramirez said the purpose is to give a platform to those who feel unheard and to encourage civic engagement.

“We’re getting people together who probably don’t think they have a voice anymore,” said Ramirez. “This is community action, this is activism.”

The event featured a diverse group of speakers from various political backgrounds, generations, and areas of concern. Among them was Matthew Snyder, chairman of the Laramie County Democratic Party, who emphasized the need for unity and continued action beyond protests.

“The divisiveness is not what moves the country forward,” Snyder said. “We need to be positive, we need to be practical, and we need to be real.”

Speakers addressed a wide range of topics, including health care, foreign policy, and economic inequality. Former US Senate candidate Charlie Hardy criticized US military aid to Israel and economic sanctions on Venezuela, drawing from his experience as a missionary in Latin America. Cheyenne psychotherapist Jessie Klein raised concerns about proposed cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs, including jobs in Wyoming.

Gary Peterson, a local attendee, said he joined to show that Wyoming residents are paying attention to their leaders’ decisions.

“You can’t afford to stay silent,” he said.

Labor organizer Jordan, representing the Industrial Workers of the World, spoke about the ongoing struggles faced by working-class and marginalized communities in the state.

While most attendees supported the protest’s message, there was one visible counter-protester, William Overling, who engaged peacefully with some participants before a brief altercation occurred. Police responded and left after a short time.

Ramirez said protests will continue throughout the year, and he hopes they inspire long-term civic involvement, including voter participation and community discussions.

“This is just the beginning,” Ramirez said. “We want to grow from here—into supporting candidates, running for office, and educating the public on how to take meaningful action.”