No Kings Rally Lufkin, Tx...

 On June 14th, 2025 we participated in the No Kings Rally here in our home town of Lufkin, Tx. It's well known that Elon Musk poured up to 300 million into Trump's election (he also underestimated Trump's total lack of principles when he expected him to stay bought) questionable interpretations of the constitution, violations of civil rights and the fact that with enough money a criminal can buy a pardon  we are in an era where the rich think they can have their way over the rest of us. The No Kings Rally, held in various cities nationwide was a protest against such things. 

I was proud to be there and to also see many friends taking part. One of the Lufkin organizers, a friend and yes I know all the radicals, called me and expressed the fear that there would be disruptions and would I bring the tuba to play and overshadow any conflict. I said sure and put together a 15 song set of patriotic music, spirituals and old civil rights standards. I played a good hour and a half at least, time passes fast when you are having fun. This was just my kind of gig and there was maybe one guy there in opposition and he was a friend so no conflicts. As Woodie Guthrie said, "This machine kills fascists"

I got this quote in the Lufkin Daily News story:

Carl Wallace had brought a tuba to play for the crowd.

"I believe that there is a place for all people in our democracy," he said. "Our constitution does not say that all men are created equal only if they can pay. We're going to take it away from the billionaires and put it back in the hands of the people.

"I'm out here today playing patriotic songs, old spirituals and civil rights tunes to inspire people."

That's my friend Julie back there photo bombing my live stream. 

Cathy wore the Irish flag to show solidarity with immigrants who have faced discrimination, loss of due process and other barriers to better lives in our great country. We both trace our heritage to the Irish who came here to escape the kings of Europe and I hope all can follow the path I have been blessed with.   

Some of these photos contributed by my friend Linda. 

Thanks to everyone who complicated my playing yesterday. It's about all using your talents not your money.