Millions of Americans took to the streets on Saturday in what organisers described as one of the largest coordinated demonstrations in recent history, protesting against what they call President Donald Trump’s “authoritarian administration.”
The protests, tagged “No Kings,” were staged in more than 2,500 cities and towns across the United States, drawing massive crowds calling for the protection of democracy and the rule of law.
Organisers said the movement was born out of growing concerns over what they described as Trump’s “increasingly militarised and autocratic approach to governance,” citing recent mass deportations, sweeping immigration raids, and the deployment of federal troops to Democrat-controlled states.
“Yellow is our symbol of unity,” said one organiser, explaining the movement’s adoption of yellow clothing and banners as a sign of nonviolent resistance. “It stands for hope, democracy, and the power of ordinary people to resist tyranny.”
Protests Amid Political Deadlock
The demonstrations come as the U.S. government faces a shutdown, with Republicans and the White House locked in a bitter standoff with Democrats over a funding bill.
In Massachusetts, Democratic Representative Jim McGovern joined protesters in the town of Haydenville, declaring on X (formerly Twitter):
“We will not back down to Donald Trump — protest is what this country was founded on.”
Across major cities including Washington D.C., New York, Los Angeles, and Atlanta, protesters waved placards reading “No Kings” and “Democracy, Not Dictatorship.” Smaller vigils were also reported in rural areas, with demonstrators gathering in town squares and along highways.
Global Solidarity
The protests extended beyond the U.S., with solidarity rallies taking place outside American embassies in Berlin, Paris, Rome, and Stockholm, where participants held signs condemning fascism and questioning President Trump’s commitment to democratic values.
In a video statement, Senator Adam Schiff of California drew parallels between the current political climate and the American Revolution.
“When we declared independence from a king 250 years ago, we also declared independence from the idea of kings,” Schiff said.
“If those grievances sound familiar, they should — because the man who would rule America today has done all of that and more.”
He urged Americans to take an active role in defending democracy:
“Democracy only survives if we defend it.”
The ‘Yellow’ Movement’s Symbolism
According to the “No Kings” campaign website, yellow serves as a symbol of optimism and unity, echoing historical movements such as the 2014 Hong Kong protests, South Korea’s yellow ribbons after the Sewol ferry tragedy, and Ukraine’s yellow-ribbon campaign against Russian occupation.
“Yellow is a bright reminder that America belongs to its people, not to kings,” the group stated.
Voices From The Streets
In Atlanta, thousands gathered near the Civic Center, where a protest band performed patriotic songs. Among them was Joan Press, a 52-year-old teacher who said she joined to defend social and civil rights.
“We’re a democracy,” she said. “And in a democracy, people can stand up and voice their opinions. We are not going to be silenced.”
Organisers say Saturday’s marches — from small-town vigils to sprawling urban rallies — carried one unifying message:
Americans reject authoritarianism and reaffirm that power must rest with the people, not kings.
