I attended the “No Kings” rally in Santa Rosa on Saturday. We were 7,000 strong and there were 5 million of us nationally! I’ve been to many demonstrations in my life, but this one felt different. For the first time, I experienced a deep heart connection with the people around me.

First of all—everyone LOVED the inflatable tank. It was decorated with flowers, had giant googly eyes on the front, and a sign on the side that read:

Tanks for showing up today!
Commit yourself to nonviolence.
Ask me for a purple armband and wear it in solidarity with others standing for peace.
TOGETHER we will prevail!
With Love,
❤️ Jes

I gave out around 100 armbands that day—and personally tied 30 of them onto people’s arms, asking, “Do you promise to be nonviolent?” As we looked into each other’s eyes, they affirmed their commitment to nonviolence. These short ceremonies were powerful and filled with emotion.

But more than anything, I felt something I haven’t felt at past rallies: a deep confidence that we are going to win this fight—and ultimately take back our democracy.

I hope the purple armband becomes a symbol that spreads—something peaceful, visible, and unifying. No doubt we’ll face challenges ahead, especially from those trying to undermine this nonviolent movement. The armband may help to distinguish us from these provocateurs.

I’ll keep offering the armbands, one by one. And if you want to create similar moments in your own city, I’d love to help you do it—ceremonially, intentionally, and with love.

Grateful for being alive when so much is possible,
❤️ Jes

Please share this on social media … let’s create a nonviolent movement!
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