Why people are protesting on Flag Day

People came together to plan protest actions on June 14, 2025. This date is important in the United States because it is Flag Day. It also marks the Army’s 250th year. On this day, a large number of people decided to speak out. They are doing this to show that they do not want power to stay in one person’s hands. They are calling it the “No Kings” protest. The people say they are standing up against the leadership style of President Trump.

These protests are not happening in just one place. Organizers have arranged the protests in over 2,000 cities. Every state in the United States will have at least one protest. Some protests are also set to happen outside the country. The biggest protest is happening in Philadelphia. That city is known for its history in American independence.

People are carrying signs. Some signs say “The Power of the People” and “No Kings, No Royalty.” The people behind the protest say they do not want a leader who acts like a king. They believe that President Trump is using too much power. They are worried that some actions ignore the law and court rules. They say that when leaders use force too much, people lose their freedom.

Different groups came together to organize this protest. One of them is called 50501. That name means 50 states, 50 protests, and one movement. This group has also organized past events. One of those protests was called “Hands Off.” That event focused on healthcare and civil rights issues.

There is also a group called Indivisible. This group started in 2016 after President Trump first became president. Another group helping is the American Civil Liberties Union. These groups are working to make sure people can speak freely and safely.

On the day of the protest, President Trump is watching a military parade in Washington, D.C. This parade is part of the Army birthday event. It includes over 6,600 soldiers, around 150 military vehicles, and even historical shows. The president says the parade shows how strong the country is. He also says that the military helps to protect freedom.

However, some people say the parade looks like something from a country with only one ruler. They say this is not how a democracy should look. These people feel that using soldiers in a parade during protests can send the wrong message. They say it makes the government look like it wants to use fear. That is why some people call June 14 a “Day of Defiance.”

One key issue for the protesters is immigration. They do not like how President Trump is handling this. Some people have been deported. Others have been arrested. There were also protests in Los Angeles last week. Things became violent, and the National Guard was called. Cars were set on fire. Protesters blocked roads. The police used tear gas and rubber bullets. Some cities even announced curfews to stop more trouble.

In response, some governors gave strong messages. They said they will arrest people who destroy things or break the law. These governors include those from Virginia, Nebraska, Missouri, and Texas. They are asking people to remain peaceful. In some states, National Guard troops are ready to assist.

In Florida, one protest is moving toward Trump’s Mar-a-Lago home. The state’s governor gave a clear warning. He said people must follow the rules. In Washington State, the governor told people to stay peaceful. He said this will stop the military from entering the state.

In Arizona, the governor also asked people to stay calm. The same message was given in Pennsylvania. The Philadelphia police are working closely with other officers. They expect up to 100,000 people in that city alone. Philadelphia’s district attorney told people that if they follow peaceful rules like Martin Luther King Jr., they will be fine.

In California, police officers are on tactical alert. That means all officers are now on duty. They are ready for anything that may happen. The state wants to stop violence before it starts.

The protest theme “No Kings” shows the people’s idea. They do not want a president who uses power like a ruler. They say this country should not have thrones or crowns. People are now placing the phrase “No Kings But Us” on their homes. It has become a new sign of protest.

The 50501 movement said they are doing this for democracy. They say the president has taken actions that do not respect people’s rights. They do not want the country to look like a place ruled by rich people and soldiers. They say the cost of the parade is too high. Some reports say it may cost between $25 million and $45 million. They believe the money can be used in better ways.

One part of their message is about who the flag belongs to. They say the flag is for all citizens, not just for the president. Their message is that they will show up in many places, especially in places where the president is not present. They want to use the day to show a different kind of power.

Organizers of the No Kings protest say it will be peaceful. They have told people not to bring weapons. They say that if anyone sees trouble, they should help calm it down. They also say people should only join if they are ready to follow non-violent methods.

The No Kings Day of Defiance might become the biggest protest since President Trump came back to power. The groups in charge say they want millions of people to come out. The protests will happen in big cities and small towns. Some people will stand outside courts. Others will be in parks and city centers.

The protests include people from many walks of life. Some are old. Some are young. Some are from different backgrounds. They all agree on one thing. They believe that the country must not have leaders who act above the law.

Some people in power support the protest goals. But they also warn against breaking the law. Law officers are on the streets to help keep things in order. They say protests are allowed. But if anyone damages things or blocks traffic, there will be arrests.

Some leaders used this time to give advice. One said that if people act like Martin Luther King Jr., they will be safe. That means they should stay calm and follow the law. Others say it is okay to protest, but never okay to use force or damage property.

The organizers said that past protests were also peaceful at first. But things changed when people started to fight. They are now asking everyone to plan their actions well. They have told people to use phones to contact lawyers in case anything happens. They have also advised people to carry ID cards. Some cities gave out safety tips on websites. These tips include how to stay safe in a crowd and how to find help if needed.

The 50501 group has also said that this is not the final protest. They are planning more events. They say people should stay ready. They want to keep the message strong. They also want to work with local groups to keep people informed.

People attending these events are sharing updates online. Photos and videos are being posted. Messages are being sent out. Some people are even writing about why they came to protest. These actions are helping the movement grow.

The message behind the No Kings protest is clear. People want leaders who follow the law. They want respect for all. They want leaders who listen and not rule like kings. They believe that freedom and fairness must guide the country. They say the parade is not the right way to show patriotism. Instead, they believe patriotism means giving voice to the people. They are standing together to make sure that happens.

They say they are ready to protest again if needed. They believe change takes time. They are not giving up. They will continue to speak. They will continue to organize. They believe this is how freedom stays strong.