Madrid, Spain—The following opinion piece is authored by Lucia Perez, a military family member who recently attended the October 18th “No Tyrants” protest in Madrid, and offers her reflections from that event. Lucia is a New York UOCAVA voter, resident of Spain, Chair of the Democrats Abroad Spain Veterans and Military Families (VMF) Caucus, and member of the Democrats Abroad Global VMF Caucus.
The peaceful events of October 18, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in our shared commitment to democracy—a day when the “Power of the People” echoed not only nationwide but worldwide. As guardians of our nation’s ideals, we witnessed Americans from all walks of life rally in solidarity in response to the horrific policies we’re seeing under President Donald Trump. The world’s media has captured our strong opposition to measures that undermine the core principles of freedom and justice that we have defended with our service and sacrifice.
In Madrid, I was proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with over 300 Democrats Abroad members and fellow citizens who converged around KM.0 – the center of Madrid’s Puerta del Sol – to demonstrate a visible presence in the public arena and support for one another. Veterans, active-duty personnel, and military families united with Americans from diverse backgrounds, channeling our collective strength and conviction to combat social injustices that impact not only those on the mainland but also our overseas network of service members and their loved ones.
The sentiment was one of unbreakable unity, as the echoes of our forefathers’ sacrifices came alive, and “We the People”—including those who have worn the uniform—stood in solemn reverence to the principles that have made America a beacon among nations. As defenders of liberty, the signs we held symbolized what is most dear to our hearts: immigration reform, LGBTQ+ rights, combating racism, and resisting autocracy and tyranny. This power of solidarity was amplified not only among attendees but also through impassioned speeches by leaders, infused with emotion, courage, and a clear vision for a renewed path forward.
Those in attendance, many of whom were veterans, military family members, and other everyday American voters like us, recognized that citizen voting is our essential duty to shift the “Balance of Power.” Participants displayed a fervent commitment to greater involvement in this movement of millions, ready to lend their expertise and support in reshaping the political landscape through policy advocacy, legislative action, and direct engagement—in essence, committing to doing whatever it takes to ensure our voices as military-connected Americans influence the halls of government.
Now, this is where the “Eye of the Lens” began to shift. As we, the veterans and military community, observe the multiplicity of issues uniting our ranks, we must guard against fragmentation – something MAGA supporters always attempt to do. For example, it is a false argument to say that protecting VA benefits is “more important” than protecting the environment. All citizens’ concerns are vital, yet, as disciplined professionals trained in strategic unity, we, as Democrats, know that comparing one cause to another erodes our collective strength—especially when the challenges facing our nation demand synergistic efforts without diminishing the urgency for the most vulnerable among us.
As we honor this unity, let us reflect through the “Eye of the Lens” on the broader mission ahead. The October 18th gathering in Madrid and elsewhere highlighted critical battles—immigration reform, LGBTQ+ rights, combating racism, and resisting autocracy—and peaceful protesters delivered passionate responses to leaders at the podium. These issues demand our vigilance, but they must not overshadow the silent struggles of our veteran and military family networks worldwide.
Attending the No Tyrants protest was eye-opening and a true learning experience. In the midst of the crowd’s conversations, I heard the understated concerns for our welfare, access to health care, benefits equity, and the ongoing sacrifices in defense of our nation—issues that went unamplified from the stage. As warriors who have faced adversity on the front lines, we know true strength lies in synergy, not division through comparison. Congressional Republicans have proven that they would rather ignore their constitutional duty of performing checks and balances; thus, voting remains our most powerful weapon to restore balance, and I urge each of you—including our esteemed policymakers and elected officials—to champion these priorities, ensuring no service member or veteran is left behind.
Together, let us extend the call for horizontality, amplifying the voices of those who have given their all, and forging a roadmap in which every American’s service is recognized and protected in our enduring pursuit of a stronger Union.
Furthermore, let’s bring forward the cries and pains that veterans and military families face at this present moment, so that no American is left behind—especially those who have given their lives and continue to serve in defense of our nation. All members of Democrats Abroad Spain are invited to join our VMF Caucus by sending an email to: [email protected]. Join us in amplifying these voices. The military-connected community of Americans has fought for and defended freedom time and time again, and is undeniably the backbone of our nation.
U.S. citizens living abroad, both civilian and military, are highly encouraged to check your voter registration status and request your ballot for any upcoming elections in your home voting state that you are eligible to vote in.
The Global VMF Caucus, proudly consisting of veterans, military family members, Department of War (DoW, formerly Department of Defense, or DoD) civilians, and strong allies of veterans and military family causes, has over 1,400 members in dozens of countries.
For questions pertaining to this statement, please reach out to