A Delaware man claims people shouldn’t waste their time at a No Kings protest. In his opinion, these haven’t achieved much because people act as if the protest is the goal. He states that there isn’t a one-off when it comes to resistance.
Kristoffer Goldsmith is well-known for his outspoken political views. He also runs a website dedicated to veterans fighting fascism. The video he posted was sparked by the third No Kings protest that occurred over the weekend. He claims he wants people to have a plan rather than just show up with signs. His video has received thousands of views and likes, with many angry over his criticism of the protests.
The video begins with the Delaware man stating that if people are going to protests just to wave signs, then “you’re wasting your time.” He argues that little has come of the protests. His reason why these haven’t achieved much is that “people are acting as if [protests] are the goal.” He has heard people argue that these show solidarity and provide hope. However, his perspective is that “resistance is not a thing that you do once on Saturday.”
He says that these protests should be opportunities and “no one has succeeded in getting anybody’s attention.” The Delaware man insists that people need to be more strategic in how these protests are used. He claims that the goal isn’t about hope. It’s about having a plan, in which he states that “the most powerful tool against fascism is community.” He states that fascism doesn’t just come from the government, but comes from your backyard. He advises that the goal should be to “connect with three people.”
Delaware Man’s Opinion Angers People
His comments have come under fire with many who disagree. One states, “You should not be discouraging participating in these protests.” Another argues, “Not true. It ABSOLUTELY HELPS. It changes minds.” Another argues, “Many of us are going there to connect AND to keep up our energy.” Others feel he’s using the video as “clickbait” to advertise his own website. One commenter says, “Going to these is literally building what you’re talking about in real time with or without your tool.”
The video is gaining attention for its specific word choice and for encouraging people not to protest. No Kings is a reflection of the tension in the country, and his calling them a waste of time has riled people up to the point that he posted a follow-up video. In this, he claims protesters are part of the problem.
The Delaware man stands by his opinion and says he isn’t sorry for what he said.
