No Kings protests to hit Chicago streets
Protesters are taking to the streets in Chicago and the suburbs Saturday for what organizers are lauding as the largest single-day anti-President Trump rally since the start of the administration.
Why it matters: The widespread movement will run counter to Trump's multimillion-dollar military parade in D.C.
The big picture:"No Kings is a nationwide day of defiance," the group's website proclaims. "From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we're taking action to reject authoritarianism."
No Kings events adhere to a shared commitment to nonviolent protest and community safety. Organizers are trained in de-escalation and work closely with local partners to ensure peaceful and effective actions nationwide.
Zoom in: There's a rally in Daley Plaza at noon Saturday, but also events stretching from Beverly to Jefferson Park, and suburbs including Joliet, Oak Park, Evanston and Gurnee.
Protesters are planning to gather across the state, stretching from Rockford to Carbondale, according to No Kings.
Zoom out: Dozens of pro-democracy advocacy groups are partnering to organize the No Kings events.
What they're saying:"Donald Trump wants tanks in the street and a made-for-TV display of dominance for his birthday," the No Kings website said.
"A spectacle meant to look like strength. But real power isn't staged in Washington. It rises up everywhere else."
By the numbers: No Kings organizers are estimating protests in more than 1,500 cities across the country.
Context: Trump proposed a military parade on his 79th birthday and the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary.
The Army predicts it will spend between $25 million and $45 million on the plan, an estimate that doesn't include the costs of the Secret Service or law enforcement.
D.C. is not known for having military parades, but Trump has been vying for one since his first term.
Yes, but: No, Kings are not scheduled to have an organized protest in Washington, D.C.
"We want to create contrast, not conflict," said Leah Greenberg, co-executive director of Indivisible, one of the partner groups.
"The choice to hold No Kings events in every city but D.C. is a deliberate choice to keep the focus on contrast, and not give the Trump administration an opportunity to stoke and then put the focus on conflict."
Catch up quick: Within a month earlier this year, anti-Trump activists rallied during Hands Off!, 50501, May Day and Tesla Takedowns protests.
Plus: For anyone who wants some laughs and entertainment Saturday, The Free America Festival (Obviously) show takes the stage Saturday from noon—3pm at The Raven Theatre.
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