what is no kings

No Kings refers primarily to a large movement and series of protests that took place against Donald Trump's second presidency, particularly notable on June 14, 2025, which was also Trump's 79th birthday and coincided with the U.S. Army's 250th Anniversary Parade. The protests—known as the No Kings protests—were organized by a coalition of progressive and civil rights groups including Indivisible and the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). They were held across more than 2,100 cities and towns in the U.S. with an estimated participation of 4 to 6 million people. The name "No Kings" reflects the movement's rejection of Trump’s self-styled image as a monarch-like figure and his administration’s policies, which protestors viewed as authoritarian and harmful to democracy. The protests were meant to affirm that power belongs to the people, defend democratic principles, and oppose the perceived militarization and dictatorship-style governance of the Trump administration. Internationally, similar protests took place under the names "No Dictators" or "No Tyrants" to adapt to constitutional monarchies in other countries. These protests represented a broad rejection of authoritarianism and a call to defend democratic governance. In addition, "No Kings" is also associated with a legislative initiative called the No Kings Act, introduced by Democratic Senators, which asserts that the president is not above the law and challenges the idea of presidential immunity from criminal prosecution—emphasizing that no one, including the president or the Supreme Court justices, should be treated like kings with unchecked power. In summary, "No Kings" represents both a major protest movement against authoritarian tendencies, specifically targeting Donald Trump's presidency, and a political principle or legislative effort demanding that no individual in government be above the law or possess unchecked ruler-like powers. It is a symbol of resistance to perceived tyranny and advocacy for democratic accountability.