Details on the “No Kings Day” protest in NYC happening this weekend

Nationwide protests under the banner “No Kings Day” are set to take place this Saturday, June 14, aiming to counteract a military parade honoring President Trump’s birthday and the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. Organized by the advocacy group Indivisible, these events will span more than 1,800 locations across the United States, Europe, and South America, drawing an anticipated audience of millions.

The “No Kings Day” demonstrations coincide with President Trump’s 79th birthday and are strategically positioned to coincide with the military parade scheduled for Washington D.C. This event, which is projected to cost approximately million, will showcase a military display including 6,600 soldiers, 150 vehicles, and 50 helicopters, alongside a fireworks presentation.

The protests come in response to recent national unrest directed at the Trump administration and its approach to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. As the date of the protests approaches, Indivisible co-executive director Ezra Levin noted that their organization has experienced a surge of participation due to a broader wave of anti-ICE demonstrations across the nation. Levin emphasized the decision to avoid Washington D.C. for the protests in order to minimize potential backlash and maintain a peaceful demonstration.

Despite the intention to keep activities outside of the nation’s capital, security measures around the parade will involve coordination among various agencies, including the Secret Service, FBI, Capitol Police, and the National Guard. Levin mentioned that over 100 pro-democracy advocacy groups are collaborating for this cause, which is expected to create a diverse coalition of participants from a wide range of political ideologies.

In New York City, the main demonstration is scheduled at Bryant Park at 2 p.m., co-hosted by the ACLU. This event will feature a march complemented by a New Orleans-style second line. Local officials, including Mayor Eric Adams and NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch, have stressed the importance of ensuring that protests remain peaceful and do not disrupt public order. Specific traffic disruptions in Midtown are anticipated, prompting officials to encourage the use of public transportation for attendees.

In addition to Bryant Park, gatherings are planned at various locations including Columbia University and Jersey City, with other protests occurring in areas like Forest Hills in Queens, Garden City, and West Babylon. The largest demonstration is expected to take place in Philadelphia, a historically significant site as the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence.

For those interested in participating or seeking additional information on the various events scheduled, an online resource is available at the mobilization website.