Are there Fourth of July protests? What to know about 'Free America' actions in Wisconsin

Yahoo

06-07-2025

Alongside parades and fireworks, some Wisconsin cities will see protests, marches or even boycotts on the Fourth of July.
As President Donald Trump's administration continues cracking down on immigration, school funding and other programs, local and national organizers are encouraging residents to spend part of their Independence Day in protest. The July 4 actions come after last month's nationwide 'No Kings' protests, which drew tens of thousands of people in more than 50 cities across Wisconsin.
Here are the protests and boycotts planned in Wisconsin for Fourth of July:
Fourth of July actions are planned in a handful of cities across Wisconsin, including Milwaukee and Madison.
On Fourth of July, Women's March is hosting 'Free America' actions across the country, encouraging people to organize marches, rallies, parades, block parties or barbecues in protest.
'Together, we must Free America from the grip of greedy billionaires who rig the system for themselves,' the Women's March website says.
Here are the July 4 protests planned in Wisconsin, according to Women's March:
Milwaukee (Downtown): The Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist & Political Repression is hosting a 'People's Independence Day' march at 1 p.m. on July 4 at Red Arrow Park, 920 N. Water St.
Milwaukee (Bay View): Supporters can join State Rep. Ryan Clancy, D-Milwaukee, as he marches in the Bay View Fourth of July parade. Meet 8:30 a.m. at 2301 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.
Green Bay: A 'Free America' action is scheduled from 1 to 2 p.m. on July 4 at 100 E. Walnut St.
Madison: The Madison Area Democratic Socialists of America is hosting a 'Solidarity BBQ' from 6 to 10 p.m. on July 4 at Brittingham Park, 829 W. Washington Ave.
Oshkosh: A 'Free America' action is scheduled for 11 a.m. on July 4 at Opera House Square, 315 N. Main St.
Neenah: Organizers are hosting a 'Sidewalk Chalk for Freedom' event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on July 4 at Riverside Park, 500 E. Wisconsin Ave.
Yes, there is a nationwide boycott planned for the Fourth of July.
The action, called the 'July 4 Silent Protest,' was organized by The People's Union USA, the group behind other consumer spending freezes throughout 2025.
John Schwarz, the group's leader, told The Arizona Republic in May the boycotts aren't directly related to companies' DEI positions, but rather to "hold corporations and corrupt systems accountable."
The group is calling for consumers to not participate in parades or firework shows, as well as not shopping at big retailers, according to an Instagram post.
'If you do anything, support small, local businesses, or stay home with your loved ones,' the caption said. 'Let silence speak louder than fireworks.'
Aside from The People's Union USA's 'silent protest' on July 4, the advocacy group has also called for a month-long boycott of these retailers:
Amazon
Home Depot
Starbucks
Walmart, McDonald's and Lowes will be the targets of a similar month-long action in August.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Free America, No Kings protests on July 4: What to know in Wisconsin