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On a day marked by significant political demonstrations across the United States, rallies opposing President Trump’s agenda took center stage, coinciding with a military parade organized by the president. These protests were part of a broader wave of demonstrations against immigration raids that began in Los Angeles and quickly spread nationwide. Approximately 2,000 cities and towns hosted events organized by the No Kings movement, which characterizes the administration’s actions as authoritarian.
Gatherings were reported near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence in West Palm Beach, Florida, where protesters chanted slogans such as “No ICE, no KKK, no fascist USA.” In Boston, where rain fell on demonstrators, tensions flared with the presence of Proud Boy counter-protesters. Philadelphia hosted the flagship No Kings rally, where local officials urged protesters to maintain peaceful demonstrations and refrain from obstructing traffic.
Lisa Gilbert, co-president of Public Citizen—one of the coalition groups behind the No Kings protests—described the turnout as impressive, with millions participating in a peaceful display of dissent. She noted that participants were united in their message: America is a democracy, not a monarchy. The events, she emphasized, were devoid of violence and primarily focused on addressing what they see as authoritarian excesses and corruption within the Trump administration.
Gilbert explained the decision not to hold a No Kings event in Washington, where the president was hosting his military parade. Organizers aimed to convey their message without direct confrontation with the military, instead highlighting the disparity between the administration’s expenditures and the democratic ideals that protestors champion.
As images from the rallies revealed a variety of chants and signs, Gilbert articulated a central theme: the protests were a response to a perceived overreach by the current administration. She called attention to recent attacks on institutions such as universities and non-profits, affirming that many citizens are disillusioned and desired to reclaim a sense of democracy.
Looking ahead, Gilbert indicated that the coalition plans to continue organizing, with upcoming events slated for Juneteenth and Labor Day, in response to growing public discontent. She anticipated a continued increase in protests as citizens seek to make their voices heard.
In light of a recent targeted attack on lawmakers in Minnesota, Gilbert expressed concern over the incendiary rhetoric surrounding these protests, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the No Kings movement. In response to the tragedy in Minnesota, all planned demonstrations in the state were canceled out of respect. Gilbert reinforced the intention behind the protests, which is rooted in a commitment to democratic ideals, ensuring that their messaging remains non-violent and focused on the principles they wish to uphold.
