Millions to protest Trump’s parade in nationwide ‘No Kings’ demonstrations
Millions of Americans are expected to take part in “No Kings” protests across the country on Saturday, June 14, organizers said. About 2,000 demonstrations are planned, with the largest expected in Philadelphia, an homage to the Second Continental Congress’ signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“I think we will see the largest peaceful single-day protests that this country has seen, certainly since the first Trump term,” said Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, one of the groups coordinating the protests.
Other organizers include the American Civil Liberties Union and 50501, a group whose name signifies 50 states, 50 protests, one movement. The demonstrations are a response to President Donald Trump’s planned military parade and birthday celebration, which will also take place Saturday.
“The flag doesn’t belong to President Trump. It belongs to us,” reads a statement on the No Kings website. “On June 14, we’re showing up everywhere he isn’t — to say no thrones, no crowns, no kings.”
The group goes on to say that the Trump administration has “defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services,” adding, “They’ve done this all while continuing to serve and enrich their billionaire allies.”
Organizers emphasized that the events are grounded in nonviolent principles. Participants are expected to de-escalate any confrontations that might arise, according to the No Kings website.
Authorities on alert
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has alerted U.S. attorneys’ offices across the country to be on standby ahead of the expected protests. Nearly 100 offices have been advised to prepare for a potential rise in criminal investigations tied to demonstrations planned in opposition to Trump and his administration.
In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the deployment of more than 5,000 Texas National Guard troops and more than 2,000 state police in anticipation of the protests, as well as to address ongoing demonstrations.
In Florida, Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey said Thursday, June 12, that his deputies will not tolerate violence during any potential weekend protests.
This story will be updated as events unfold.
Ella Rae Greene, Editor In Chief
