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‘No Kings' protest set for Saturday at Toomer's Corner in Auburn
AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL) —A peaceful protest is planned for this Saturday, June 14, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Toomer's Corner, as part of a national day of action dubbed 'No Kings.'
The nationwide protest counters President Donald Trump's military parade in Washington, D.C. The demonstrations coincide with Trump's 79th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, which organizers say underscores their concerns about rising authoritarianism and use of military spectacle for political purposes.
'We're protesting because President Trump and his enablers have gone too far,' said Kristin Hinnant, an organizer with Indivisible. 'From defying court orders to staging a $45 million self-glorifying parade, they've shown us exactly who they are. This protest is a peaceful, powerful response to a president who thinks he's untouchable. He's not.'
The nationwide movement includes more than 1,400 rallies across the country, as citizens prepare to speak out on issues ranging from military force against protesters to threats to vital programs like Medicaid and Social Security.
'ICE doesn't belong in our neighborhoods. Tactical teams with military-grade equipment don't make communities safer, they terrorize them. Trump is turning federal agents into a political militia and it's happening in broad daylight. It's the latest example of authoritarian overreach designed to rule by fear, not serve the people,' said Hinnant.
Organizers say they chose Toomer's Corner for its deep significance to the Auburn community.
'It's where we celebrate our victories and mourn our losses. It's been the site of a daily civil rights protest since George Floyd's murder,' Hinnant said. 'What better place to rally our people to oppose tyranny?'
Hinnant voiced strong concern over the Trump administration's use of federal force in American cities.
'Trump is turning federal agents into a political militia. Tactical teams with military-grade equipment don't make us safer—they terrorize neighborhoods,' she said. 'This is about ruling by fear, not serving the people.'
According to Hinnant, local support has been strong. Hundreds have RSVP'd, and both Auburn Police and campus security are aware and supportive of the peaceful demonstration.
'We've proven who we are—nonviolent, focused, and united,' she said. 'We expect a joyful, peaceful show of courage and solidarity.'
Indivisible Auburn-Opelika is also calling on elected leaders, including Congressman Mike Rogers, to take a stand.
'We need leaders to reject authoritarianism and restore accountability. That means protecting the rule of law—and protecting people, not power,' Hinnant said.
As communities across the country rise up for 'No Kings' Day, organizers in Auburn say their message is clear: democracy belongs to the people, not to any one man.
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