A diverse group of protesters hold American flags and handmade signs during a “No Kings” demonstration, expressing opposition to the Trump administration’s immigration policies and concerns about authoritarianism.

What happens when Americans feel their democracy is at risk?

Millions Turn Out Nationwide for ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump Administration

June 20, 2025

Millions Turn Out Nationwide for ‘No Kings’ Protests Against Trump Administration

Ask students: Why did millions of people participate in the 'No Kings' protests across the country? What does the phrase 'No Kings' mean in the context of these demonstrations?

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On June 14, Protesters held rallies across the country opposing Trump’s agenda on the day of the president’s military parade. They cap a week of demonstrations against immigration raids that began in Los Angeles and spread nationwide. Saturday’s ‘No Kings’ protests were organized by a coalition of groups. John Yang speaks with Lisa Gilbert, the co-president of one of them, Public Citizen.

View the transcript of the story.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why did millions of people participate in the 'No Kings' protests across the country?
  2. What does the phrase 'No Kings' mean in the context of these demonstrations?
  3. Which city did not hold a 'No Kings' protest and why?
  4. How did protestors express their concerns, and what issues were they protesting?
  5. Who organized or led the protests, and what were they hoping to achieve?

Focus Questions

  1. Do you think public protests are an effective way to bring attention to political concerns? Why or why not?
  2. Why might some people feel that presidential power has gone too far? Do you think it’s important to question government leaders? Explain your response.
  3. Media literacy: What words or images in this story helped shape your opinion about the protests? How might the story feel different if it included voices from people who disagreed with the protest?

Extension Activity

Watch the video below to learn more about Trump's military parade and how it compares to military parades of the past. After the video, discuss: 

  1. What message do you think a military parade like this sends to other countries and to people in the U.S.?
  2. Do you think it's appropriate to display military strength through public events like parades? Why or why not?

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Republished with permission from PBS News Hour Classroom.

PBS News Hour Classroom
PBS News Hour Classroom helps teachers and students identify the who, what, where and why-it-matters of the major national and international news stories. The site combines the best of News Hour's reliable, trustworthy news program with lesson plans developed specifically for... See More
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