On Saturday, cities across the U.S. are gearing up for significant demonstrations targeting President Donald Trump, with officials urging calm and mobilizing National Guard troops ahead of the events.
In Philadelphia, a prominent rally and “No Kings” march is scheduled, expected to attract a large crowd. However, no demonstrations are planned in Washington, D.C., where Trump is attending a military parade to commemorate the Army’s 250th anniversary.
Organizers indicated that the largest protests in Colorado will take place today, with events planned in Denver, Littleton, Arvada, Thornton, Golden, Castle Rock, and about 35 other communities statewide. The Denver “No Kings” march is set to start at the Lincoln Veterans Memorial near the state Capitol at noon.
These demonstrations come in response to escalating protests throughout the nation related to federal immigration enforcement raids that began last week. In reaction, Trump ordered National Guard troops and Marines to respond to unrest in Los Angeles, where protesters blocked freeways and set vehicles on fire.
Law enforcement in Los Angeles deployed tear gas, rubber bullets, and flash-bang grenades, enforcing curfews as officials labeled Trump’s deployment of the National Guard as an alarming misuse of power, emphasizing that it suggests a lack of trust in local law enforcement.
In response, several governors and city officials expressed resolve to protect the right to protest while maintaining a zero-tolerance policy for violence. Republican governors in states like Virginia, Texas, Nebraska, and Missouri are mobilizing National Guard troops to assist in managing the protests. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin stated that there would be zero tolerance for violence or disruptions, warning that anyone violating the law would be arrested.
Similarly, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe stressed a proactive stance against potential chaos, and Nebraska’s governor signed an emergency proclamation to activate his state’s National Guard as a precautionary measure given recent civil unrest.
Demonstrators have plans to march to the gates of Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, where Governor Ron DeSantis cautioned them against crossing lines during the protests. Additionally, governors, including Washington’s Bob Ferguson, have urged for peaceful demonstrations to prevent any militarization from the federal government.
Governor Ferguson described Trump’s provocations as attempts to undermine local public safety, while Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs also urged demonstrators to remain peaceful in exercising their First Amendment rights. In Philadelphia, Governor Josh Shapiro’s administration is coordinating with local police as the expected turnout could reach nearly 100,000 participants.
District Attorney Larry Krasner emphasized that any individuals coming to Philadelphia to break the law or immigration agents overstepping their authority would face arrest. Referencing the legacy of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., he encouraged peaceful actions among demonstrators.
Law enforcement agencies are intensifying their readiness for the weekend’s demonstrations. In California, state troopers are placed on “tactical alert,” canceling all days off for officers to ensure adequate coverage and response capabilities.
The “No Kings” moniker stems from the 50501 Movement, representing a collective effort to defend democracy against what organizers perceive as the authoritarian tendencies of the Trump administration. This initiative stands for 50 states, 50 protests, united as one movement.
The upcoming protests are also timed to coincide with the Army’s bicentennial celebrations, which Trump is amplifying through a military parade projected to cost between $25 million and $45 million and expected to draw around 200,000 attendees. The events will showcase numerous military vehicles, aircraft, and thousands of service members, marking not only the Army’s anniversary but also Trump’s 79th birthday and Flag Day.
A statement on the “No Kings” website declares, “The flag doesn’t belong to President Trump. It belongs to us,” asserting that the demonstrations on June 14th serve to deliver a unified message against any signs of authoritarianism.
Rallies and protests are planned in nearly 2,000 locations throughout the United States, ranging from local community parks to city blocks and courthouse steps. Organizers anticipate speeches and marches to occur, adhering to a commitment to nonviolent action throughout the protests, with instructions for participants to avoid bringing any weapons.
The No Kings Day of Defiance is expected to represent the largest single-day mobilization since Trump’s return to office, with organizers preparing for millions to engage in protests across the fifty states and commonwealths. The movement aims not only to demonstrate dissent but also to reinforce a commitment to democracy and civil rights, amidst a backdrop of heightened tensions surrounding federal policies and their implications on public safety and community rights.
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