Just over a week after protests erupted in Los Angeles, comes a day of planned demonstrations across California and the United States, where attendees will reject “authoritarian politics” in the nation.
Known as the “No Kings Nationwide Day of Defiance,” the demonstrations serve to divert attention from a military parade in Washington, D.C. on Saturday, June 14, which organizers say President Donald Trump is using to celebrate himself. The parade, which celebrates the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, coincides with the president’s 79th birthday.
“This is bigger than politics,” organizers said in a news release. “They’ve defied our courts, deported citizens, disappeared people off the streets, attacked our civil rights, slashed essential services, and handed billions to their allies. Enough is enough.”
More: No Kings protesters plan Redding rally, join demonstrations across North State
What can I expect at a No Kings protest?
Because local organizers are involved in setting up No Kings events, each demonstration can look a bit different. For example, there will be a rally and march in downtown Los Angeles as part of one No Kings Day protest, but not all No Kings Day protests may involve a march.
Organizers said that a “core principle” behind No Kings events is “a commitment to nonviolent action.”
“We expect all participants to seek to de-escalate any potential confrontation with those who disagree with our values and to act lawfully at these events,” according to a news release.
Know your rights at protests: Tips from the ACLU
Public protests are protected in the United States by the First Amendment and are legal in public areas providing you are not blocking car or pedestrian traffic or blocking access to government buildings.
That said, law enforcement may interpret your intentions differently and some have acted with force.
The Human Rights Campaign advises protesters to scope out the area of the protest ahead of time and identify multiple routes out of the area. An offline-accessible map can help. During the protest, remain aware of your surroundings and what’s happening around you.
While the First Amendment protects your right to say your opinions, keep in mind that making “true threats” or saying things that incite imminent violence or law-breaking can get you into trouble, according to the American Civil Liberties Union of Northern California.
Also, counter-protestors are allowed to show up and voice their contrasting opinions, although they shouldn’t be allowed to physically disrupt the event, according to the ACLU of Southern California.
While demonstrators are urged to act lawfully at No Kings protests, tensions can escalate or bad actors can be present, heightening the possibility of arrests. People are urged to remember that if they are arrested, they have the right to remain silent, although they should not refuse to tell the police their name and address, according to both the ACLU of NorCal and SoCal.
What should I bring to a protest?
Experts at Physicians for Human Rights suggest bringing the following:
Backpack or string bag: You won’t want anything bulky and you’ll want your hands free. Fanny packs can also help.
Face mask or bandanna: Useful for helping to shield your eyes from pepper spray or tear gas.
Water: You’ll need to stay hydrated. Bring as big a bottle as you can, with a squirt top in case you need to quickly wash off your skin or eyes.
Glasses: Avoid wearing contact lenses, which can trap irritating chemicals. If you must wear contacts, wear shatter-resistant goggles with a tight seal. Avoid wearing makeup such as eyeliner for the same reason.
Comfortable clothes, closed shoes: You may want to cover as much skin as possible. You should also consider bringing a spare change of clothes in your bag in case your clothes get sprayed. Some protesters make a point of wearing all black, or at least clothes without obvious slogans or easily identifiable markings.
A few days of any vital medication: In case you are arrested. Ideally, they should be in a labeled prescription bottle.
Cash: In case you need bail.
Snacks: High-energy, high-protein munchies are preferred.
Many organizations advise protesters to leave their phones at home to protect their privacy, as they can easily be tracked. If you must take your phone, keep it turned off until you need it, and before you go, disable Face ID or fingerprint security and stick with the 6-digit passcode instead. You may also consider buying a cheap secondary phone to use.
Also, if you bring a phone, bring a backup power source if possible, according to the Human Rights Campaign. Other suggestions the LGBTQ+ civil rights organization has for what to bring to a protest are:
Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your vehicle
A list of written emergency contacts on your body or a piece of paper, so you don’t have to rely on your phone
Where are ‘No Kings’ day protests happening in California?
No Kings day events are happening across California, according to a map of events. Here is a non-exhaustive list of cities where No Kings demonstrations are planned:
How many No Kings protests are planned in California?
According to the map of No Kings protests, more than 200 demonstrations are taking place in California on Saturday, June 14.
What day is Trump’s military parade? Here’s what time it begins
The Grand Military Parade is on Saturday, June 14, starting at 3:30 p.m. PT. The Army Birthday Festival at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., will be taking place throughout the day and wrap up before the parade, according to the U.S. Army.
When is Donald Trump’s birthday?
Trump’s birthday is Saturday, June 14. He was born in 1946, and he’ll turn 79 years old this year.
Paris Barraza is a trending reporter covering California news at The Desert Sun. Reach her at pbarraza@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Going to a No Kings protest? What to bring to a protest, safety tips