Donald Trump’s $45 million birthday parade is being met with a national wave of defiance, and you can find out exactly where to join in.
No Kings protests near me: Interactive map to find nearest anti-Trump demonstration on June 14
Donald Trump turns 79 on June 14, and he’s marking the day with a military parade through Washington, D.C., that’s set to cost taxpayers up to $45 million. Yes, you read that right. As hard-working citizens around the country struggle to pay basic bills and medical costs, the president is splashing out on a parade that some have likened to those of dictators Putin and Xi.
Organizers of the parade, as with other controversial policies, have another sell. They say it’s meant to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Critics say it’s a glorified birthday bash with tanks.
What are the No Kings protests?
In response, activists across the U.S. are planning something very different. Thousands are expected to gather for “No Kings” protests in all 50 states on June 14, part of what they’re calling a “nationwide day of defiance.” Their message? The United States doesn’t have kings – and certainly doesn’t throw them birthday parades.
Launched by the 50501 Movement and a coalition of progressive groups, the protests are described as a grassroots pushback against what organizers say is Trump’s “authoritarian spectacle.” The name refers to “50 protests, 50 states, one movement.”
According to the official No Kings website, the goal is to show the world “what democracy really looks like” – not armored vehicles rolling past the Lincoln Memorial.
“We’re not gathering to feed his ego,” the group says. “We’re building a movement that leaves him behind.” Events will take place in parks, on courthouse steps, in town squares, everywhere except near the parade route.
Celebrity support has helped spread the word, with Chrissy Teigen among the most vocal. In a widely shared Instagram post, she accused Trump of “acting like a king” and urged Americans to show up and reject “arbitrary decrees and disregard for checks and balances.”
Where and how can I join the No Kings protests?
An interactive map is now live at NoKings.org/map, showing the nearest protest events by ZIP code. You can search your city, sign up to attend, or even register a new event if there isn’t one nearby.
From Los Angeles to Louisville, protests are planned in every state. In some places, it’ll be a few hundred people with signs; in others, full-scale rallies with speakers, music, and flag-waving – though not the kind Trump prefers.
America fought off a monarchy almost 250 years ago – and on June 14, many will be out in force to say they don’t want one creeping back.
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