In the lead-up to the highly anticipated military parade in Washington D.C., organized in honor of President Donald Trump, thousands of Americans are preparing to take a stand against what they perceive as his dangerous brand of authoritarianism. This organized day of protests, named the “No Kings Nationwide Day of Defiance,” is set to occur in over 2,000 cities across the country. The movement comes in response to a week of unrest following immigration raids in Los Angeles and the Trump administration's controversial decision to federalize the National Guard and deploy Marines to California.
Ezra Levin, an organizer and co-founder of the liberal advocacy group Indivisible, noted that interest in the protests has “skyrocketed” since the recent demonstrations began. Just this week, individuals from an additional 200 cities have registered to host their own No Kings events, indicating a significant rise in public engagement. Levin anticipates that participation will exceed the estimated 3.5 million who took part in a similar nationwide protest in April.
“We’re no longer talking to folks who are just paying attention to politics,” Levin explained. “People are witnessing the overreach by Trump and are asking, ‘What can I do?’” Images of immigrants being detained in everyday situations have resonated with a broader segment of the public, sparking heightened awareness and concern, despite ongoing support for stricter immigration policies.
While some demonstrations have resulted in violence, with reports of arrests and property damage, the No Kings organizers are committed to ensuring peaceful events on Saturday. They have implemented additional training for participants, focusing on “de-escalation” tactics and appointing volunteer marshals to enhance safety during the protests.
The decision to avoid hosting an event in Washington D.C. was made deliberately, given the military celebration planned in the capital. Nonetheless, various groups have scheduled their own demonstrations in D.C. Law enforcement agencies across the nation are preparing for potential unrest, with President Trump warning that those who protest will be met with “very big force.” In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott has already deployed 5,000 National Guard troops and 2,000 state troopers to manage anticipated protests, acting without prior consultation with local leaders.
In New York, organizers expect between 50,000 and 100,000 individuals to march down Fifth Avenue, commencing at Bryant Park and concluding at Madison Square Park. Mayor Eric Adams has assured the public that police will facilitate the right to protest, provided there is no disruption. “New York City will always be a place to peacefully protest,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of maintaining order.
In Los Angeles, organizers anticipate a turnout of approximately 70,000 people gathering near City Hall. Hunter Dunn, a spokesperson for the rally, asserted that recent events underscore the message that President Trump is abusing his power. Additional demands have emerged in L.A., including calls for the withdrawal of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers and the National Guard, along with the dismissal of charges against a labor leader arrested during protests.
Atlanta’s rally at the Georgia Capitol is projected to attract over 5,000 participants, many of whom are affected by the Trump administration's federal cutbacks. Laura Jones, an event sponsor and activist, expressed hope that the gathering would energize civic engagement in a city historically committed to justice. “We kind of set the tone for resistance, and it’s really important for us to come together,” she remarked.
Meanwhile, in Chicago, organizers expect at least 30,000 participants to fill Daley Plaza, followed by a march past the Trump International Hotel and Tower. Denise Poloyac, a board member of the Indivisible Chicago Alliance, emphasized the importance of showing solidarity against Trump’s policies, stating, “More people appreciate the crisis we’re in and see the importance of defending the bedrocks of our democracy.”
Philadelphia will host its own protest at Love Park in Center City, culminating in a march to the Museum of Art. Organizers anticipate around 60,000 attendees, although Vicki Miller, a retired lawyer, acknowledged the difficulty of predicting turnout. Recent protests have often exceeded expectations, and the absence of an official event in D.C. may boost attendance in Philadelphia.
Miller underscored the urgency of the day, stating, “We are having this to show how many people are outraged that Trump thinks that he is a king.” The protests aim to foster a sense of community among those who feel hurt and worried about the current state of the nation.
As America braces for a day of significant political expression, the No Kings Nationwide Day of Defiance symbolizes a collective stand against perceived authoritarianism and calls for accountability from the Trump administration.
