From the Streets to Policy: Business Leaders Must Turn No Kings Day Energy Into Real Democratic Action

From the Streets to Policy:
Business Leaders Must Turn No Kings Day Energy Into Real Democratic Action

As millions of Americans prepare to take to the streets on October 18 for No Kings Day—what is shaping up to be one of the largest demonstrations in American history—the American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) recognizes this powerful moment of civic engagement and the critical work that must follow.

Protests are essential to democracy. They make the voice of the people visible, create solidarity among citizens, and send an unmistakable message to our government at every level. But protest alone does not create the road to progress. The energy and passion demonstrated in our streets must translate into sustained policy advocacy and democratic engagement to create meaningful, lasting change.

It’s time again to work for our democracy—and we’re not afraid of work.

The business community has a vital role to play in strengthening democratic institutions and practices. That’s why ASBN is proud to share our upcoming summit to complement the energy around America, Business, Policy and Purpose: The Business of Democracy conference, taking place next week on October 21-23, 2025.

This bipartisan virtual gathering is designed to harness the momentum of this historic moment and channel it into concrete action. No matter your politics, your industry, the size of your business, or where you’re located in the United States or around the world, we invite you to come together in support of democracy itself.

Because without democracy, we all lose.

“The passion we’re going to see in streets across America reflects something fundamental: people understand that democracy is not a spectator sport,” said Camilla Taylor, Executive Director of ASBN. “As business leaders, we have both the responsibility and the opportunity to transform this energy into policy solutions and generationally responsible democratic practices. Our conference will provide the tools, connections, and strategies needed to turn commitment into action.“

“Throughout history, American democracy has been strengthened when citizens actively engage,” said David Levine, Co-founder and President of ASBN. “The business community must be part of this work. A working Democracy creates stable, fair, and transparent systems that allow responsible businesses to thrive and communities to prosper. When we invest in democratic institutions and advocate for policies that protect our values, we’re not just doing the right thing; we’re building the foundation for a just, sustainable and thriving economy.“

The Business, Policy and Purpose conference will bring together business leaders, policymakers, investors, and advocates to address the intersection of commerce and democratic governance, exploring how the private sector can actively support and strengthen democratic institutions, fair policy-making processes, and equitable economic systems.

To learn more and register for the conference, visit: asbnetwork.org/conference

###

American Sustainable Business Network (ASBN) amplifies the collective voice of sustainable business to lead the way to a regenerative economy that is stakeholder-driven, just, and prosperous. As a multi-issue, membership organization advocating on behalf of every business sector, size, and geography, ASBN works to advance its mission to inform, connect, and mobilize sustainable business leaders, transforming the public and private sectors toward a just and regenerative economy.