Opponents of President Donald Trump are preparing for major demonstrations in numerous cities this Saturday during the scheduled military parade set to honor the Army’s 250th anniversary in Washington, D.C., an event that also falls on President Trump’s birthday.
Known as the “No Kings” protests, these events aim to counter what organizers interpret as Trump’s attempt to aggrandize himself on his 79th birthday and Flag Day. These demonstrations come on the heels of other national protests against federal immigration raids, including actions in Los Angeles that have been stirred further by Trump’s decision to deploy the National Guard.
Following Trump’s lead, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced on Thursday that he has ordered over 5,000 Texas National Guard troops and more than 2,000 state police to be deployed in response to the ongoing demonstrations and in preparation for the “No Kings” protests.
The parade in celebration of the Army’s anniversary was already on the agenda, but the president has recently heightened its significance by deciding to feature 60-ton M1 Abrams tanks and Paladin self-propelled howitzers moving through the streets. Trump’s interest in showcasing a display of patriotic force is not new.
The “No Kings” slogan is driven by the 50501 Movement, a coalition of ordinary Americans united against what they see as the authoritarian tendencies of the Trump administration, with its name signifying 50 states, 50 protests, one movement. Protesters earlier this year spoke out against Trump and Elon Musk, who formerly led Trump’s now-dismantled Department of Government Efficiency. Participants expressed their desire to “dethrone” Trump, drawing parallels between his governance and monarchical rule rather than a democracy.
“As stated on the group’s website, the Trump administration has gone against legal courts, removed citizens, abducted individuals off the streets, undermined civil rights, and cut essential services,” the movement’s representatives claim. They argue these actions cater to enriching billionaire allies at the expense of the public.
The Saturday protests have been assembled under the notion of rejecting authoritarianism, prioritizing billionaires, and the militarization of national democracy, according to the event’s organizers. “No Kings” aims to challenge the grandiose parade marking the Army’s anniversary, which Trump has enhanced with a costly military spectacle.
Though these protests are scheduled to occur in nearly 2,000 spots nationwide — from urban centers to rural towns, courthouse steps to community parks — none will take place in Washington, D.C. In lieu of a D.C. protest, “No Kings” is planning a primary march and rally in Philadelphia to contrast its grassroots movement with what they describe as the “extravagant, wasteful, and un-American celebration” in the capital.
Participants of all ages are expected to gather for speeches, marches, and demonstrations, bearing signs and waving American flags, organizers mentioned in a recent communication. According to their website, adhering to nonviolent action is an essential principle of the “No Kings” gatherings, with an emphasis on de-escalating any potential conflict. Attendees are advised that weapons of any kind are strictly prohibited at these events.
The No Kings Day of Defiance is predicted to be the largest single-day movement since President Trump has been in office, with organizers anticipating millions to participate across all 50 states and commonwealths.