Protesters gathered outside of the Capitol in Jefferson City on Feb. 17, 2025, as part of “Not my President” or “No Kings Day” protests across the country. Participants supported abortion access and transgender rights while opposing ICE deportations and DOGE.
Activist Seania Crowley encourages protesters on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025, on Madison Street near the Capitol. “If you are scared of trans people, or you have issues with trans people, go try to meet one. Have a conversation with us,” Crowley later said. “We are people. I love country music and bourbon, and I grew up hunting just as much as the next Missourian.”
A crowd holds signs on the steps of the Missouri State Capitol building on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. They stand beneath a bronze statue depicting Thomas Jefferson.
Rep. Marty Joe Murray, D-St. Louis, speaks into a megaphone outside the Capitol on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. Murray encouraged protesters to make sure the lawmakers inside could hear their voices.
Luke Jensen plays the drums to the beat of protester chants as they approach the Capitol on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. “Please for the love of God don’t stay silent,” Jensen said. “show them what you’re made of.”
Sylvia Donnelly (left) and Brandie Coxson (right) chant with a crowd of protesters on on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. “I’m here for my family. I’m here for my kids. I’m here for my future. I’m here for the future of this country. I’m here for the future of us,” Coxson later said.
Two protesters hold hands on the steps of the Capitol on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. “Raise your voice. You can do this. We can do it together,” another protester later said.
Rep. Wick Thomas, D-Kansas City, speaks to a crowd protesting on the steps of the Capitol on Monday, Feb. 17, 2025. “Ugly things can happen in this beautiful building,” Thomas told protesters.