On Saturday, June 14, 2025, the United States witnessed a historic wave of protests under the slogan “No Kings.” Triggered by a massive military parade held in Washington D.C. to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army—and coinciding with former President Trump’s 79th birthday—protesters took to the streets in over 2,100 locations across all 50 states. The movement voiced growing concerns about authoritarianism, militarization, and a perceived erosion of democratic norms.
Los Angeles: A Flashpoint of Tension
In Los Angeles, thousands gathered in neighborhoods such as Glendale, Pasadena, Studio City, Hollywood, Culver City, and Downtown. The demonstrations began peacefully, but by late afternoon, the atmosphere shifted. At around 3:55 p.m., authorities declared the downtown gathering an unlawful assembly after confrontations broke out.
Police reported that some individuals began throwing rocks, bottles, fireworks, and even Molotov cocktails. Officers responded with tear gas, rubber bullets, and flashbangs to disperse the crowd. Seven police officers were injured during the clashes, and multiple videos circulated showing tense confrontations—including one incident involving a mounted officer striking an older man with a baton.
A citywide curfew was issued in central areas to regain control. Overnight, streets were scattered with debris, and tensions remained high as helicopters hovered over protest zones.
A Nationwide Movement
While Los Angeles experienced the most volatile scenes, major cities like New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, and Houston also saw large-scale protests. In most places, demonstrations remained peaceful, with participants holding signs, chanting, and performing symbolic acts like raising inverted flags or staging silent marches.
In Portland and Salt Lake City, however, similar unrest occurred. One protester was reported to be in critical condition after being shot, although details remain unclear.
The Message Behind “No Kings”
The “No Kings” movement is part of a larger coalition known as the 50501 Movement—referring to voices rising up from all 50 states plus Washington D.C. Backed by civil rights and labor organizations, the protestors are calling out what they describe as a pattern of authoritarian behavior: increasing federal militarization, aggressive immigration enforcement, and suppression of dissent.
The military parade in Washington, featuring tanks, historic warplanes, and thousands of soldiers, served as the tipping point for many. Critics described the event as an unnecessary and expensive display of power, estimating its cost to be between $25 million and $45 million.
What Comes Next
The June 14 protests mark one of the largest coordinated mobilizations in U.S. history. Organizers estimate that over 5 million people participated nationwide. With the upcoming elections looming, the movement signals a growing public demand for accountability, democratic integrity, and protection of civil liberties.
In the days ahead, activists plan to maintain pressure through continued demonstrations, public education campaigns, and voter mobilization efforts. Cities across the country are bracing for further action, while government officials are being urged to respond to citizens’ concerns with dialogue—not force.