What is America's 'No Kings Day' protest?

As Washington, D.C. marked the US Army’s 250th birthday with a large military parade on Saturday, June 14, an event that also coincided with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, thousands of Americans participated in a different kind of gathering: No Kings Day.

This national day of protest, led by a grassroots coalition called the 50501 Movement, spanned nearly 2,000 cities and towns across the US. Rather than protesting the military or national symbols, participants say their goal is to defend democratic values and ensure that American leadership remains accountable, representative, and guided by the Constitution.

- Why is it called "No Kings Day"? -

The name No Kings Day draws inspiration from America’s founding ideals, specifically, its rejection of a monarchy. Organizers say the day is meant to reaffirm that in a democracy, power must rest with the people, not with any one leader.

“The flag doesn’t belong to President Trump. It belongs to us,” reads a statement on the movement’s website. “On June 14th, we’re showing up everywhere he isn’t, to say no thrones, no crowns, no kings.”

- Who’s behind the movement? -

The 50501 Movement, whose name stands for 50 states, 50 protests, one movement, describes itself as a nonpartisan coalition of civic organizers, community groups, and everyday Americans who believe the country is at a turning point. They say they are concerned about what they view as a drift away from democratic norms.

Rather than gathering in Washington, D.C., where a large military parade featured tanks and heavy equipment, No Kings Day rallies were held in public parks, town squares, and courthouse steps across the nation.

- What are they protesting? -

Participants have expressed concern over what they describe as a concentration of power and influence in the executive branch. The movement points to policies, rhetoric, and decisions they see as undermining constitutional checks and balances. Some also criticized former government adviser Elon Musk, who once headed a department focused on cutting federal spending.

“They’ve defied our courts, deported Americans, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, and slashed our services,” said the group in a statement. “They’ve done this all while continuing to serve and enrich their billionaire allies.”

- Why June 14? -

June 14 is rich in American symbolism. It is Flag Day, the US Army’s birthday, and also President Trump’s birthday. Organizers say this made it the right time to remind the country of its founding principles.

- What are they asking for? -

Protesters are not calling for any radical change, they say they are asking for a return to democratic basics: accountable leadership, respect for institutions, and protection of civil liberties.

“This is about democracy, not about parties or personalities,” said one volunteer. “We’re here to make sure no one in America forgets that our leaders serve the people, not the other way around.”