Chicago – June 13, 2025
Millions of people across the United States are planning to join more than 2,000 protests organized by the “No Kings” movement on June 14. These protests are meant to stand against what organizers call “authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics, and the militarization of democracy.” The protests coincide with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday and a military parade celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary.
The movement opposes Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C., which has drawn criticism for being expensive and showing a display of power. In Los Angeles, Trump sent the National Guard and Marines after large protests against immigration raids, a move that has energized more people to join the protests. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the National Guard’s deployment in Los Angeles could be used in other states too. Texas Governor Greg Abbott also sent the National Guard ahead of protests, including a “No Kings” event in San Antonio.
Organizers say the protests will happen in cities and towns across all 50 states, focusing on rejecting strongman politics and corruption. They want to show that real power comes from the people, not from displays of military strength. The main march will be in Philadelphia, while other protests will take place nearby Washington, D.C., but not in the capital itself to avoid conflict.
The “No Kings” protests are described as a peaceful day of defiance against what participants see as the Trump administration’s overreach and attacks on democracy.
