Speakers:
JESS PIPER
Jess Piper is a passionate advocate for rural communities and public education. After 16 years as an American literature teacher, she ran in 2022 for a seat in the Missouri House of Representatives, District 1. Though she did not win, her commitment to activism never wavered. Today, she serves as Executive Director of Blue Missouri and writes The View from Rural Missouri on Substack, where she amplifies rural voices and progressive policy from a rural Missouri perspective.
W. T. EDMONSON
Rev. W. T. Edmonson is the interim pastor of Second Baptist Church in Jefferson City and a longtime advocate for justice, equality, and community service. A Lincoln University graduate, former president of the Jefferson City NAACP, vice president of Missouri Faith Voices, and founder of the Jefferson City Faith Voices chapter, he has spent decades serving and advocating for his community. His leadership is rooted in faith, service, and walking alongside people who need support.
TONY MICHAELS
Tony Michaels is the host of The Tony Michaels Podcast and publisher of The Coffman Chronicle, where he offers independent political commentary focused on democracy, constitutional accountability, concentrated power, and working-class issues. Known for his direct and energetic style, Michaels uses his platform to examine current events, government power, courts, corruption, and the role ordinary people play in defending democracy.
Voting Information:
We'll be available to help you:
Confirm your voter registration is active and up to date. In the past year, more than 220,000 Missouri voters were removed from the rolls — make sure you're not one of them.
Register to vote for the first time. First-time registration can feel like a mystery if no one's ever shown you how. We'll make it straightforward, answer your questions, and make sure you leave ready to vote.
Update your registration if your name or address has changed. Life happens — people move, get married, start over somewhere new. But an outdated registration can mean showing up at the wrong polling place, voting a limited ballot, or being removed from the rolls. A quick update now means no surprises on Election Day.
Quick Reminders:
Schedule: Rally: 10:00-10:45 AM · People’s March: 10:45-11:30 AM, downtown Jefferson City and returning to the Capitol.
Dress for the weather (layers, sunscreen, hat, jacket, umbrella/raincoat) depending on the forecast
Costumes - You’re welcome to wear a family-friendly costume, a fun way to add color and show our peaceful spirit.
Water - bring water to stay hydrated while we make our voices heard
Signs - Bring your sign and your spirit! Please keep messages respectful — no profanity or hate speech. Don’t have a sign? We’ll also have extra signs you can borrow!
Parking, including accessible parking - see information below.
PARKING: Lots marked in red (9, 12, 13/13A) are the most convenient. If those are full, lots marked in blue (10, 14, 18) are also available. Accessible parking is available in the Lot (1C), marked in orange. Enter through the High Street entrance (across from the Supreme Court) and present your disabled parking hangtag. Accessible parking is limited. It’s advisable to arrive early.
RESTROOMS: Restrooms (indicated with green R) are located inside the Capitol on the first floor to the right and left of the main entrance (indicated with gold star).
Our Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Rally
We Stand United is committed to fostering a peaceful and accepting atmosphere at our rallies. We ask all attendees to engage with respect and kindness, ensuring this event remains welcoming for everyone. To uphold these values, we kindly remind participants to refrain from using hate speech, profanity, or any language that could compromise the spirit of unity and positivity. Together, we can create an environment that reflects the shared goals of understanding, cooperation, and community.
Frequently Asked Questions
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We Stand United for the Missouri State Capitol to be a safe and inclusive space where every voice is heard. Join us for a peaceful and lawful gathering to foster unity, mutual respect, and open dialogue as we come together—many voices, one purpose—to inspire change and safeguard our democracy. This is not the place for hate speech.
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Yes, this rally has obtained the necessary permit through the Missouri Office of Administration to hold a rally on the south steps and lawn of the Capitol.
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We welcome signs that reflect your passion and support. We kindly ask that all signs remain respectful—please, no hate speech, profanity, or offensive language. Let’s keep this a positive and inclusive event for everyone.
If you don’t have a sign, we’ve got you covered! A selection of signs will be available at the event for anyone who’d like to use one.
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Street parking is free on Saturdays. Additionally, there are several state office parking lots, which are open on Saturdays. Accessible parking is available in the Media Lot (1C), marked in orange on the map. Enter through the High Street entrance (across from the Supreme Court) and present your disabled parking hangtag. View the Capitol Parking map above for details on available lots.
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Rally attendees should gather on the steps on the south side of the Capitol (facing High Street). We Stand United will have a table under a PURPLE CANOPY near the Capitol Steps. There will be staff available before, during, and after the rally if you have questions or need assistance. Look for our staff in neon yellow “We Stand United Missouri” shirts or safety vests.
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If counter-protesters attempt to disrupt the rally, we ask that you do not engage. Avoid responding, arguing, or escalating the situation. Instead, stay focused on the rally and the reason you came. Event staff and the Capitol Police are prepared to handle disruptions and will respond appropriately. Your peaceful presence is the most powerful response.
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Yes! We welcome volunteers. Contact us here, and we’ll be in touch with details.