Full Breakdown
Activists Rally in Charleston for "Remove the Regime" Day Amid Permit Disputes
11/26/2025, 4:38:26 AM
Overview of the Protest
On Saturday afternoon, activists gathered in downtown Charleston as part of the national "Remove the Regime" day of action, advocating for constitutional rights and government accountability. The demonstration was marked by ongoing concerns regarding the City of Charleston's controversial First Amendment Ordinance, which has faced criticism from local organizers.
Permit Disputes and March Organization
The march's organizers, including Bonnie Cleaveland, reported difficulties in securing permits for the demonstration. Cleaveland stated that her application was denied, and she was offered a "limited" march route in a less-trafficked area of the city. After asserting that the march would proceed unpermitted, negotiations with local authorities resulted in an agreed-upon route that passed significant locations such as Marion Square and City Hall.
Criticism of the First Amendment Ordinance
Charleston's First Amendment Ordinance, enacted in July 2021, mandates that groups of 25 or more obtain permission from the Charleston Police Department before gathering. It also restricts protests from disrupting traffic and prohibits demonstrations near monuments. Critics argue that the ordinance, passed without public comment, aims to suppress free speech, particularly in defense of marginalized communities. The Charleston chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) has claimed that the ordinance is used to "criminalize free speech in defense of Black lives" and has been applied selectively against certain groups.
Voices from the Protest
Participants voiced their concerns about racial profiling and the impact of federal immigration enforcement in the community. A volunteer from CHS Hotline, an immigrants' rights group, emphasized the need to represent those unable to protest, highlighting the stress caused by police interactions. Cleaveland echoed these sentiments, stating that the ordinance creates a chilling effect on free speech and that many individuals lack the resources to challenge the police.
Official Statements and Responses
Charleston police maintain that the ordinance is intended to establish clear rules for demonstrations to ensure the safety and welfare of participants and the public. However, activists argue that the enforcement of these regulations disproportionately targets specific voices and opinions.
Future Actions and Community Sentiment
Despite the challenges faced in organizing the march, Cleaveland expressed optimism about future demonstrations, indicating plans for additional marches on subsequent "No Kings Days." She emphasized the importance of standing up for community members facing harassment by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and reaffirmed the commitment to protecting First Amendment rights.
Conclusion
The "Remove the Regime" protest in Charleston reflects broader tensions surrounding government accountability, racial profiling, and the right to protest. Activists continue to challenge local ordinances that they believe infringe upon their rights, advocating for a community where federal enforcement does not undermine civil liberties.
