In a significant display of dissent, over 2,000 protests erupted across 50 US states, objecting to what attendees labelled “authoritarianism, billionaire-first politics, and the militarisation of our democracy” under the Trump administration, according to organisers. The protests synchronised with a military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the US Army’s 250th anniversary and coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday.
Among the demonstrators was talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, who expressed support for the “peaceful” march he attended in South Bay, Los Angeles. Kimmel shared on Instagram, “I met many people who love this country… It really is as simple as that.” He sported a shirt that read “Make America Good Again!” during the event, reinforcing the message of collective action against the current political climate.
In another Los Angeles protest, actor Jack Black was spotted, although it remains uncertain whether he was an active participant or just passing by. Videos of him circulating on TikTok showed him engaging with fans en route. Meanwhile, on the East Coast, stars Mark Ruffalo and Susan Sarandon joined in the protests in New York City, amplifying the voices of those opposing Trump’s presidency. Other famous figures, such as Anna Kendrick and Julia Louis-Dreyfus, also posted images on social media showcasing their involvement, with Louis-Dreyfus holding a sign that read, “The only monarch I like is a butterfly.”
The protests underscored widespread frustration, with demonstrators deeming Trump a dictator and likening him to a “would-be king.” Massive crowds marched through cities like New York, Denver, Chicago, Houston, and Los Angeles, many brandishing “no kings” banners. In Atlanta, a gathering at the Capitol saw its 5,000 capacity quickly filled, with countless others outside listening to speakers.
In Washington, anti-war activists voiced their opposition, displaying messages like “Homes not drones” near military displays set up for the Army’s anniversary. Symbolic actions included some attendees flying American flags upside down, a traditional signal of distress, alongside the presence of Mexican flags, prevalent in Los Angeles protests related to immigration issues.
As the protests unfolded, they reflected a significant moment of pushback against the perceived tumult within American democracy, uniting diverse voices in a call for accountability and change during a pivotal time in the nation’s history.