WASHINGTON, D.C. – As former President Donald Trump prepares to host a military parade in Washington, D.C., a grassroots wave of opposition is taking shape across the country. On Flag Day, June 14, communities will join forces in the NO KINGS Nationwide Day of Defiance, a coordinated protest effort calling attention to what organizers describe as an anti-democratic display of power.
National Movement With Local Momentum
Organizers say the protests were inspired by the energy of past demonstrations such as the Hands Off! and May Day rallies. The central message of this event—“No Kings”—is aimed at resisting what protesters see as authoritarian overreach and the glorification of militarism, especially when paired with patriotic symbolism.
Over 100 local gatherings are scheduled across the U.S., with a significant concentration in the D.C. metro area and surrounding regions. Organizers are emphasizing peaceful civic action, with signs, chants, and community unity as key components of each gathering.
Flag Day: A Strategic Choice
Flag Day, observed annually on June 14, commemorates the adoption of the U.S. flag in 1777. This year, it has taken on an additional layer of symbolism, as it coincides with the scheduled Trump-led military parade—a move that critics argue mirrors authoritarian tactics seen in other nations.
“The parade is not just a celebration of patriotism; it’s a display of power and nationalism that should concern every American who values democracy,” one organizer told 7News.
In contrast, the NO KINGS protest seeks to reclaim the meaning of patriotism by emphasizing civic values, accountability, and resistance to authoritarianism.
D.C. Area Locations for ‘No Kings’ Protests
Here are some of the confirmed local protest sites across Maryland, Virginia, and the D.C. metro area:
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Garrett Park, MD – Strathmore Avenue
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Arlington, VA – Innovation Elementary School, 2300 Key Blvd
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Herndon-Reston, VA – (Location to be announced)
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Fairfax, VA – Multiple intersections including:
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Main St / Jermantown
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Main St / Waples Mill
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Lee Hwy / Monument
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Fairfax Blvd / Chain Bridge
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I-495 pedestrian overpass (Park near Audrey Moore Rec Center)
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Springfield, VA – Old Keene Mill Road & Rolling Road (Cardinal Forest Shopping Center)
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Bethesda, MD – 7272 Wisconsin Avenue
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Chevy Chase, MD – Elm Street Urban Park and Connecticut Avenue & East-West Highway
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Rockville, MD – MD-355 Rockville
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Falls Church, VA – 3480 S Jefferson Street
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Gaithersburg, MD – Montgomery Village Ave & North Frederick Ave
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Silver Spring, MD – Seminary Road Beltway Overpass
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Leesburg, VA – 18 E Market Street
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Prince George’s County, MD – U.S. 1 & Regents Drive, College Park
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Takoma Park, MD – Temporary Takoma Park Library, 7505 New Hampshire Ave, Suite 205
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Bowie, MD – 15210 Annapolis Road
Organizers encourage attendees to bring signs, wear themed apparel, and participate peacefully in raising their voices for democracy.
Civic Engagement Over Spectacle
While Trump’s parade is expected to draw a large crowd and national attention, the NO KINGS campaign is emphasizing grassroots action over political spectacle. Protesters are advocating for voter engagement, civic responsibility, and pushing back against political figures they believe undermine democratic institutions.
Local participants see this as an opportunity to stand for values over personalities.
“Whether you support Trump or not, militarizing public events and turning civic holidays into political statements is dangerous,” said one Fairfax protester preparing to attend.
Looking Ahead
As June 14 approaches, momentum for the NO KINGS protest continues to build, particularly among youth, advocacy groups, and long-time political activists. Organizers have expressed hope that this year’s Flag Day will be remembered not just for flags and parades—but for a renewed commitment to democracy, inclusivity, and justice.
Participants can find more details on exact times and coordination updates by following local organizers online or visiting gathering points listed above.
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