On Saturday, a large gathering took place in Downtown Miami for a “No Kings” protest, coinciding with parallel demonstrations across the nation as President Donald Trump celebrated the 250th anniversary of the United States Army with a significant military parade.
The event also coincided with Flag Day and marked President Trump’s 79th birthday.
Despite the oppressive heat, hundreds, possibly thousands, filled the streets to voice their dissatisfaction with the Trump administration.
The protest notably maintained a peaceful atmosphere, even as protesters expressed their strong sentiments.
The chant of “No Kings” resonated throughout the downtown area, highlighting a clear message against perceived tyranny.
A protester named Javier Maudet expressed, “We’ve been king-free since 1776, and it’s important for the world to realize that there are people who will stand up against this tyranny of Trump.”
Gathering at Bayside, many demonstrators condemned the actions and policies of the Trump administration.
Another protester, T.L. Brown, shared his frustration, saying, “I’m just angry. I’m pissed off — it’s crazy.”
Deborah Paris told CBS News Miami that under President Trump, the administration has “not done one positive thing.”
She further elaborated, stating, “Just negative things. Destroyed people’s lives. It’s not been a good time.”
Among the topics of concern at the “No Kings” rally, immigration stood out as a major issue.
Maudet commented on the situation regarding immigrants, noting, “The cruelty against immigrants, and I understand maybe they are illegally in this country, but they’re working — they’re hardworking individuals and they don’t deserve to be treated like criminals and separated from their families. It’s just horrible.”
Some attendees drew comparisons between Trump and dictatorial regimes.
Protester Jodi Ziskin stated, “I’m watching America turn into a fascist state. This is ridiculous and the fact that it’s being accepted — we have to show unity. We have to get people together that actually care about democracy, that care about people, that care about each other.”
However, the protest also drew supporters of President Trump, who staged a counter-demonstration.
Trump supporter Maurice Symonette declared, “Oh, he’s doing great. Freedom. He’s giving us the right to live.”
Some notable figures were present as well; former Proud Boys leader Enrique Tarrio, who was pardoned by President Trump earlier this year for his involvement in the January 6 insurrection, was spotted at the protest.
When interviewed about their feelings as Americans, most protesters at the downtown event expressed a yearning for significant change in the country.
Paris remarked, “I wish I could be prouder but I’m not. But, I am proud when I see these many people coming out to at least say how it should be.”
Brown added, “I want the America that I was born in and love to be here, to stay. I want democracy to stay.”
Protests were not only contained to Downtown Miami; in Miami Beach, dozens gathered at Pride Park, where chants of “immigrants are America” echoed.
The Miami Herald also reported that a circle formed in the park, allowing individuals to share their reasons for participating in the demonstration using a megaphone.
image source from：https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/no-kings-protest-miami-trump-ice-immigration/
