‘No Kings’ protests planned in US as Trump marks military parade

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: News Websites
11 Jun 2025 20:05

Over 1,500 US cities will host ‘No Kings’ rallies against authoritarianism on June 14, coinciding with Trump's birthday and a military parade marking the US Army's 250th anniversary in Washington, DC.

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President Donald Trump speaks to reporters after arriving on Air Force One, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Joint Base Andrews, Md. (AP)

Critics of US President Donald Trump are preparing to stage nationwide “No Kings” protests on June 14, the same day a large-scale military parade is scheduled to take place in Washington, DC. The coordinated demonstrations are organized by more than 200 activist groups are expected to take place in over 1,500 cities across all 50 US states.

In a public statement, organizers described the event as "a nationwide day of defiance," aimed at rejecting authoritarianism and promoting democratic values. “From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism — and show the world what democracy really looks like,” the statement read.

Sanders warns of 'authoritarianism'

The statement rings close to remarks made by Senator Bernie Sanders, who warned on Sunday about the direction of the United States under Trump, following his deployment of the National Guard to Los Angeles in response to protests over federal immigration raids.

Speaking to CNN, the Vermont senator criticized Trump’s decision to override state authority and send 2,000 California National Guard troops without a formal request from state officials. “We have a president who is moving this country rapidly into authoritarianism,” Sanders said. “My understanding is that the governor of California, the mayor of the city of Los Angeles, did not request the National Guard, but he thinks he has a right to do anything he wants.”

In his comments, Sanders outlined a broad pattern of behavior that he says reflects the administration’s disregard for democratic norms and constitutional boundaries. “He is suing the media who criticizes him. He is going after law firms who have clients who were against him. He’s going after universities that teach courses that he doesn’t like. He’s threatening to impeach judges who rule against him. And he’s usurping the powers of the United States Congress,” he said.

Military parade or birthday celebration?

The June 14 military parade in Washington, DC, will mark the 250th anniversary of the US Army. The celebration will feature tanks, artillery, historic and modern aircraft, as well as thousands of troops in ceremonial and period uniforms. The event will also include military musicians, aerial performances, enlistment and reenlistment ceremonies, and will culminate with a concert and fireworks display.

June 14 also coincides with Donald Trump's 79th birthday. While the White House has referred to the timing as coincidental, Trump described the parade as “an unforgettable celebration” and extended an invitation to the public to attend the festivities.

The overlap of the military parade and the nationwide protests has sparked contrasting reactions across the political spectrum, with critics citing concerns over the symbolism of showcasing military power on the same day as calls for democratic accountability.