Thousands Join ‘No Kings’ Protests Across U.S., With Major Demonstrations in Southern California
On Saturday, thousands of people across the United States participated in coordinated “No Kings” protests — a growing movement opposing the policies of President Donald Trump and his administration. Dozens of demonstrations were held throughout Southern California, with a major turnout in downtown Los Angeles.
The protests coincided with several significant dates: Flag Day, the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Army, and former President Trump’s 79th birthday. Organizers say the timing was intentional, aimed at symbolically rejecting authoritarianism and highlighting concerns about civil liberties under the Trump administration.
The “No Kings” movement takes its name from a phrase meant to reject the idea of authoritarian rule. According to the group’s official website, their mission is to oppose what they describe as escalating corruption and abuse of power by federal authorities.
“They’ve defied our courts, deported American citizens, disappeared people off the streets, attacked civil rights, and slashed essential services,” the homepage declares. “The corruption has gone too far. No thrones. No crowns. No kings.”
In Los Angeles, thousands of protesters gathered at Grand Park by 10 a.m., chanting slogans and carrying signs. The downtown area, which has been a focal point for activism in recent weeks, has seen heightened tensions since June 6, when federal immigration raids began sweeping through neighborhoods in L.A. County.
These enforcement actions have led to hundreds of arrests, sparking outrage among immigration advocates, civil rights groups, and community members. In response, downtown L.A. has become a regular gathering site for demonstrations, some of which have turned confrontational.
Despite the increased police presence, Saturday’s “No Kings” protest remained largely peaceful, though authorities continued to monitor the situation closely.
