Protests Against “No Kings Day”

In recent weeks, the United States has witnessed the rise of a powerful new protest movement centered around a national commemoration called "No Kings Day." What was intended by some as a patriotic celebration of American independence from monarchy has sparked widespread demonstrations, with activists, historians, and citizens calling it a misguided, politically charged, and deeply problematic event. This article explores the background of No Kings Day, the reasons behind the protests, and what the controversy reveals about the current state of American politics and national identity.

What Is “No Kings Day”?

“No Kings Day” is a newly declared event, unofficially promoted in 2025 by a coalition of conservative politicians, historians, and military organizations. It is loosely based on the idea of celebrating the United States’ historical break from monarchical rule—specifically, its independence from Britain and King George III. The day is scheduled annually around June 15, which is also associated with the 250th anniversary of key Revolutionary War events.

The name, “No Kings Day,” implies a reaffirmation of American republicanism, a celebration of democracy, and a rejection of authoritarian rule. However, its rollout has sparked intense backlash, especially due to its timing, symbolism, and political undertones.

Why Are People Protesting?

1. Perceived Political Motivation

One of the primary criticisms is that “No Kings Day” is less about historical education and more about modern political messaging. Many critics argue that the holiday has been co-opted by far-right groups as a veiled attack on perceived political elites, globalism, and progressive values. Several Republican lawmakers, including allies of former President Donald Trump, have endorsed the day, further politicizing it.

In addition, the event’s close proximity to Donald Trump’s birthday (June 14) has raised eyebrows. Protesters argue that the holiday is being used to build a cult of personality around Trump—ironically mimicking the very idea of monarchy that the day claims to oppose.

2. Historical Inaccuracy and Oversimplification

Historians and educators have also voiced strong opposition to No Kings Day. Many believe the holiday oversimplifies the complex legacy of the American Revolution and ignores critical aspects such as:

The continued presence of systemic inequality

The exclusion of Indigenous, Black, and female voices from historical narratives

The contradiction between American democratic ideals and past support for slavery

Critics argue that wrapping this complex history into a patriotic, black-and-white narrative does more harm than good—especially when presented in schools and public ceremonies.

3. Militarization of the Celebration

Another point of concern is the military-style parades and flyovers associated with No Kings Day. Organizers planned over 1,000 events nationwide, many of them sponsored by defense contractors and veterans’ groups. Protesters claim this framing contributes to a culture of militarism and nationalist extremism, rather than fostering civic understanding or democratic values.

Some demonstrations have even used slogans like:

“No Crowns, No Guns, No Lies”

“You Don’t Fight Tyranny with Authoritarianism”

“Democracy Is More Than Fireworks”

4. Exclusion of Marginalized Voices

Progressive groups have pointed out that No Kings Day celebrations lack diversity and inclusivity, focusing predominantly on white, male historical figures. LGBTQ+ activists, Indigenous leaders, and civil rights groups argue that true democracy means elevating all voices, not just those aligned with the dominant historical narrative.

For example, in Boston, a city with deep Revolutionary roots, protesters formed a human chain around a statue of Crispus Attucks—an African-American man killed in the Boston Massacre—demanding more inclusive representation in civic holidays.

Major Cities Join the Resistance

Protests against No Kings Day have erupted in major cities across the U.S., including:

New York City: Thousands marched through Central Park, holding signs that read “We Want Justice, Not Just History.”

Los Angeles: Youth-led organizations held teach-ins in public libraries to educate about the dangers of politicizing history.

Chicago: Activists staged a sit-in at a downtown military parade route.

Washington, D.C.: Protesters surrounded federal buildings and demanded the repeal of public funding for No Kings Day events.

These protests have been mostly peaceful, but tensions remain high. In some cities, counter-protesters showed up, waving flags and chanting slogans supporting the holiday, leading to confrontations that were eventually de-escalated by local law enforcement.

Social Media and the Rise of #NoKingsNoLies

On platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and Instagram, the hashtag #NoKingsNoLies has gone viral. Influencers, educators, and even veterans are speaking out against what they see as a dangerous blending of nationalism and historical revisionism.

Some viral posts include:

Videos debunking myths about the Founding Fathers

Memes mocking the militarization of a “freedom celebration”

Testimonials from immigrants and minorities about what real democracy means

In contrast, supporters of the holiday have created their own hashtags like #TrueAmericanPride and #NoKingsDay2025, framing the opposition as unpatriotic or “anti-American.”

What Do Organizers Say?

Defenders of No Kings Day argue that the backlash is overblown. They insist the holiday is meant to unite Americans under a common identity, honor the country’s revolutionary past, and promote civic pride. They claim the event is non-partisan and designed to encourage historical literacy among younger generations.

One spokesperson said, “We’re simply reminding Americans that we don’t have kings, and we never will. That’s something to celebrate.”

However, given the political endorsements and the public imagery associated with the day, many remain skeptical.

A Symbol of Larger Cultural Tensions

Ultimately, the protests against No Kings Day reflect deeper issues in American society:

Who gets to define patriotism?

How should history be remembered and taught?

Is nationalism compatible with democracy?

In a time of political division and cultural anxiety, public holidays are no longer just about celebration—they are battlegrounds for ideas, identity, and power.

Conclusion

“No Kings Day” may have begun as a symbolic nod to America’s anti-monarchical roots, but it has quickly become a flashpoint in the nation's ongoing political and cultural struggles. The protests against it are not merely about one holiday—they are part of a broader demand for historical accuracy, political accountability, and inclusive democracy.

As the United States approaches its semiquincentennial (250 years since its founding), debates like these will likely intensify. In the end, whether you support or oppose No Kings Day, one thing is clear: the fight for how America tells its story is far from over.