Local residents are expected to be among those gathering in Pasadena on Saturday afternoon to join a coordinated nationwide protest movement opposing the Trump administration’s policies. Demonstrations are planned in more than 1,500 cities across the United States that day.
The Pasadena “No Kings Day” protest is set for 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the intersection of Lake Avenue and Colorado Boulevard, part of what organizers describe as a “nationwide day of defiance” to “reject authoritarianism.”
Without naming the event specifically, the City of Pasadena issued a statement Wednesday that said law enforcement will closely monitor upcoming public demonstrations.
“We are aware of planned gatherings here in Pasadena in the coming days. We want to assure you that the city respects everyone’s First Amendment right to peaceful protest.?However, anyone taking advantage of these situations to commit crimes in our City will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.?The Police Department will be monitoring these gatherings solely for the purpose of ensuring public safety and the protection of property.”
Saturday’s demonstration will coincide with Flag Day, and President Donald Trump’s military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday, which also falls on Trump’s 79th birthday.
The timing is intentional, according to organizers who want to counter Trump’s military displays on both coasts with grassroots demonstrations nationwide.
The broader movement expects to surpass the April 5 “Hands Off!” protests, which reportedly drew more than 3 million participants nationally.
The demonstrations are organized by Indivisible and a coalition including 50501, Declaration for American Democracy, People Power United, Stand Up America, and the Transformative Justice Coalition. Organizers emphasize their commitment to nonviolent protest and community safety.
“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,” organizers stated in their official announcement.
Support for the event is likely to have gained additional momentum following recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in Los Angeles, which resulted in the deployment of 700 Marines and 4,000 California National Guard troops to the region. At least 330 people have been arrested during related demonstrations since the Immigration and Customs Enforcement protests began.
According to Newsweek, Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, told the publication that the goal of the protest is to send a message that the United States has no kings while Trump stages what critics call an authoritarian display of military force on both coasts of the country.
All participants are expected to adhere to shared commitments of nonviolent protest and community safety, organizers said.
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