Reject authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics: What is ‘No Kings’ protest against Trump? Explained

Thousands of people across the United States are expected to take to the streets on Saturday, June 14, in what organisers are calling the “No Kings Day of Defiance.” The large-scale protests are set to coincide with a military parade in Washington, DC to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the US Army and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.Organizers have said that the event in Washington DC will begin at 6:30 pm.Who is behind No Kings Day?The nationwide protest effort is led by Indivisible, a nonprofit network of political action groups, in partnership with the 50501 Movement. The name 50501 represents 50 states, 50 protests, and one united movement. The campaign was launched in response to what organisers describe as Trump’s authoritarian tendencies and billionaire-first politics.The day of protest has been carefully planned to stand in contrast to Trump’s lavish birthday celebration and parade, which will include military tanks, flyovers, and thousands of soldiers. Organisers claim it is a misuse of taxpayer money.Why are people protesting?The “No Kings” protests aim to push back against what many see as Trump’s attempt to present himself as a ruler rather than a democratically elected leader. “They’ve defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services,” says the movement’s website.The protesters want to highlight issues such as civil rights, government overreach, and favouritism towards the wealthy. They accuse the administration of enriching billionaire allies while cutting essential services.What will the protests look like?According to organisers, peaceful demonstrations are planned in nearly 2,000 locations across all 50 states and US commonwealths. Activities will include marching, speeches, and waving American flags. Organisers have emphasised that all protests will be nonviolent and have discouraged attendees from bringing weapons.A major rally is scheduled in Philadelphia as the flagship event, deliberately placed outside of Washington, D.C. The group says it wants to “make action everywhere else the story of America that day.”What does Trump say about it?When asked about the protests, President Trump said, “For those people that want to protest, they’re going to be met with very big force. And I haven’t even heard about a protest, but you know, this is people that hate our country, but they will be met with very heavy force.”The president had earlier released a video inviting Americans to join what he called an “unforgettable” birthday celebration in Washington, saying it would be “one like you’ve never seen before.”Why is it called ‘No Kings’?The protest’s name reflects a growing concern among some Americans that Trump is behaving more like a monarch than a president. Protesters have used slogans such as “no thrones, no crowns, no kings,” aiming to defend democratic institutions and challenge the increasing use of military symbolism in domestic politics.Earlier protests had also criticised Trump’s former adviser Elon Musk, who previously led a now-disbanded government department called the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The group accused both men of undermining democracy.Organisers claim that this could be the largest day of protest since Trump returned to office in January, with millions expected to participate.