Preparations underway for Saturday protest in downtown Cleveland
CLEVELAND (WJW) — As unrest continues to make headlines on the West Coast, a growing movement is now taking shape right here in Northeast Ohio.
One of the largest demonstrations is expected Saturday in downtown Cleveland, where activists will host the 'No Kings' March, a protest aimed at defending democracy and pushing back on what organizers call a dangerous drift toward authoritarianism.
The event is timed to coincide with a military parade scheduled in Washington, D.C., one that's drawn criticism for its price tag and symbolism. Ellen Frank, one of the lead organizers of the Cleveland march, says the goal is to provide a stark contrast.
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'It's in opposition to the big, ugly parade Trump is spending in D.C. and spending $45 million of taxpayer money,' Frank told FOX 8. 'It feels more like an ode to power than a tribute to service.'
The 'No Kings' March is part of a coordinated national day of action, with events being held across the country. Locally, the march will begin at Cleveland's iconic Free Stamp and end at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame — two locations organizers say were chosen for their high visibility.
Cleveland police have been notified of the event and are preparing for the expected crowds. The protest also overlaps with the city's Juneteenth celebrations, and officials confirmed all permits and planning have followed proper procedures.
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Frank says the response has far exceeded their expectations.
'We are expecting anywhere from 5 to 6 thousand people,' she said.
While some may disagree with the protest's message, Frank says that dialogue and disagreement are central to the event's purpose and to democracy itself.
The march is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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