Protests are expected to take place across cities and towns in North Carolina as part of a “nationwide day of defiance” against President Donald Trump.
Across the country, “No Kings” demonstrations are set to take place on Flag Day, which is Saturday, June 14. These demonstrations coincide with the White House’s celebration of the 250-year anniversary of the U.S. Army and President Trump’s birthday.
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“The flag doesn’t belong to President Trump,” the protest organizers’ wrote on the “No Kings website. “It belongs to us. We’re not watching history happen. We’re making it.”
The national mobilization is organized by a coalition of groups such as Indivisible, the Human Rights Campaign, the American Civil Liberties Union and the Jewish Voice for Peace. The organizer’s website said “No Kings” is inspired by the success of other nationwide demonstrations like “Hands Off!” and “May Day.”
“From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism—and show the world what democracy really looks like,” the website stated.
A spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party said, "It’s shameful the radical left-wing Democrats are protesting the U.S. Army’s 250th Birthday Celebration over their hatred of President Trump. The American people clearly support President Trump’s agenda, but more importantly, we should all agree on celebrating and honoring our American heroes at the 250th Birthday of the U.S. Army. This event is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices, achievements, and true spirit of American warriors."
Where and when are the protests?
There are roughly 15 demonstrations planned across the region this weekend.
Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill and more cities in and around the Triangle are hosting their own protests at different times throughout the day. Find the full list of participating cities here.
According to NC 50501 spokesperson Cole Dragotta, the Raleigh protest is expected to draw more than 2,000 people as of Friday morning.
“No Kings” noted that the demonstrations are a commitment to nonviolent action. The website expects all participants to seek de-escalation in any potential confrontation “with those who disagree” with their values.
Weapons of any kind, including those legally permitted, are discouraged from being brought to the events.
North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein said the safety of the state's citizens is paramount during these organized protests where large crowds gather.
“The right to peacefully protest is sacred and enshrined in our First Amendment, and I will always work to protect that right," Stein said. "I urge everyone who wishes to be heard to do so peacefully and lawfully."
“Our nation’s history has been shaped by powerful examples of nonviolent protest, and we are the better for them. Turning to violence or destruction, however, risks harming people and property; it will not be tolerated. Keeping North Carolinians safe is an absolute must."
Stein's office has been in communication with several state agencies and law enforcement teams this week.
A spokesperson for the North Carolina GOP called Saturday's planned gatherings radical.
Why are demonstrations happening on Flag Day, June 14?
While in Washington, D.C., the U.S Army is celebrating its 250th anniversary with a full day of festival programming at the National Mall and a grand military parade along Constitution Avenue. The celebration will include military demonstrations, equipment displays, live music and food trucks.
Because of this celebration, No Kings said it will not host a demonstration in D.C. Instead, that major flagship march has moved to Pennsylvania to draw a “clear contrast” between the demonstrations and the parade in D.C.
The date also happens to be President Trump’s 79th birthday.
On Tuesday, President Trump kicked off this week of military-centric events with a visit to Fort Bragg, his second official visit to North Carolina since being reelected.