Nationwide 'No Kings' Protests Challenge Trump's Parade, Emphasize Democracy and Immigrant Rights
June 12, 2025
On June 14, 2025, opponents of President Donald Trump's administration are organizing nationwide 'No Kings' protests, coinciding with a military parade in Washington celebrating the Army's 250th anniversary and Trump's 79th birthday.
These protests aim to be peaceful and emphasize the importance of democracy and freedom of expression, with over 1,500 events planned across the United States.
Various groups, including Indivisible Bemidji, are involved in the organization of this extensive national protest.
Antonio Guttierez, co-founder of Organized Communities Against Deportation, highlighted the urgency of the situation, stressing that families are at risk and the integrity of democracy is at stake.
Democratic leaders, including Chicago's Mayor Johnson and Governor JB Pritzker, have reaffirmed their support for the city's sanctuary status, opposing cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
In Spokane, Mayor Lisa Brown imposed a curfew after a protest outside an ICE office resulted in over 30 arrests, emphasizing the need to protect public safety while supporting the right to protest.
Chief Eric Winstrom of the Grand Rapids Police Department underscored the importance of allowing citizens to exercise their First Amendment rights while maintaining order, stating that property destruction or violence will not be tolerated.
City officials are ramping up resources to manage the protests and are encouraging peaceful demonstrations.
In Chicago, police have blocked several bridges to manage protest traffic, allowing pedestrian access while rerouting vehicles.
By mid-afternoon, around 400 people gathered for a second demonstration organized by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, advocating for immigrant protections.
The protest in Chicago began at the Immigration Building and Federal Plaza, growing in size as it moved through the city, reflecting the national debate on immigration and local challenges related to the migrant crisis.
The organizing group emphasizes their goal to stand against corruption and advocate for silenced voices and abandoned communities.
Summary based on 73 sources
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Sources

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