On June 14, 2025, the United States witnessed one of its largest coordinated protest movements in recent history, as millions participated in “No Kings Day” demonstrations across all 50 states. The protests coincided with a grand military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. Organized by a coalition of over 200 advocacy groups, including Indivisible and the American Civil Liberties Union, the protests aimed to denounce what they perceive as the president’s authoritarian tendencies and recent immigration enforcement actions.
The military parade in the nation’s capital featured approximately 6,600 soldiers, 150 military vehicles, and 50 aircraft, marking the most extensive display of military might in Washington since 1991. While the administration presented the event as a tribute to the armed forces, critics argued that it served as a political spectacle, especially given its timing on the president’s birthday. President Trump, addressing attendees, emphasized the parade’s significance in showcasing American strength and unity.
Simultaneously, protests erupted nationwide under the “No Kings” banner, a movement symbolizing resistance to perceived autocratic governance. Major cities such as New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, and Austin saw significant turnouts, with demonstrators carrying signs reading “No Kings,” “Democracy Not Tyranny,” and “Resist Authoritarianism.” Organizers reported that over 5 million people participated in more than 2,000 events across the country.
Los Angeles became a focal point of the protests, following a series of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting undocumented immigrants in locations including emergency rooms and homeless shelters. These actions sparked widespread outrage and led to mass demonstrations throughout the city. In response, President Trump deployed approximately 4,700 National Guard troops and 700 active-duty Marines to Los Angeles, a move that faced legal challenges and was criticized by local officials. California Governor Gavin Newsom condemned the federalization of the state’s National Guard, labeling it an overreach of executive power.
Clashes between protesters and law enforcement in Los Angeles resulted in over 500 arrests, with reports of tear gas and rubber bullets being used to disperse crowds. Despite these confrontations, the majority of demonstrations remained peaceful, emphasizing nonviolent resistance and civil disobedience. Organizers provided training sessions and legal resources to ensure the safety and preparedness of participants.
The protests also faced challenges in other states. In Minnesota, planned demonstrations were canceled after the tragic shooting of State Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband. Authorities discovered “No Kings” flyers in the suspect’s vehicle, prompting concerns about potential threats to protestors. Similarly, in Texas, the state capitol was temporarily evacuated due to a credible threat against lawmakers planning to attend the protests.
President Trump responded to the nationwide demonstrations by issuing stern warnings. In a statement, he declared that any attempts to disrupt the military parade would be met with “very big force,” emphasizing his administration’s commitment to maintaining order. These remarks further fueled tensions between the federal government and protestors, who viewed the president’s stance as indicative of authoritarianism.
The “No Kings” protests underscore a deepening divide in the United States over issues of immigration, federal authority, and the balance of power. As the nation grapples with these challenges, the events of June 14 serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of civic engagement and the ongoing debate over the direction of American democracy.
