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Protests under the banner of "No Kings" are set to occur across Central New York on Saturday (June 14), coinciding with President Trump's military parade in Washington, D.C., which marks the Army's 250th anniversary and his 79th birthday. Organized by the 50501 Movement, these protests aim to challenge what they perceive as authoritarian actions by the Trump administration.
Events are planned in Syracuse, North Syracuse, Rome, and Oswego, among other locations. The movement's website, nokings.org, provides a list of protest sites. Organizers emphasize peaceful assembly, urging participants to avoid violence and carry no weapons.
The "No Kings" protests are part of a larger national movement, with nearly 2,000 events scheduled across the United States. The protests are a response to President Trump's decision to enhance the Army celebration with military displays, including tanks and howitzers, which some view as an unnecessary show of force.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has responded by deploying over 5,000 National Guard troops and 2,000 state police to manage the demonstrations. Meanwhile, the flagship "No Kings" rally will occur in Philadelphia, highlighting the contrast between the grassroots movement and the military parade in Washington.
Organizers stress the protests are a stand against perceived billionaire-first politics and the militarization of democracy. They aim to draw attention to what they call the Trump administration's authoritarian tendencies, including alleged attacks on civil rights and federal service cuts.