Iowa City residents are expected to join a nationwide day of protest against President Donald Trump and declare, “No Kings.”
The demonstration is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 14, along Iowa Avenue near the Pentacrest.
A release said the event will bring the community together for “an electricifying day of live music, dancing and activism.”
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What’s happening at Saturday’s ‘No Kings’ rally?
Speakers are expected at 11:30 a.m. while live music and taco trucks are scheduled for noon. Additional speakers and tabling opportunities are scheduled for 1 p.m. The event is expected to finish with a People’s Parade around downtown Iowa City beginning at 1:30 p.m.
Saturday’s musicians are expected to “(dress) up in costume representing the things they want to PROTECT under the constitution,” including books, mailboxes, shopping carts, drag queens and more.
Sesame Street’s Bert and Ernie are expected to make a cameo in opposition to cuts to public television, according to a release.
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The release encouraged attendees to bring their “signs, voices and energy” as they “parade, rally and push forward for change.”
“This event is more than a parade—it’s a call to action,” organizers wrote. “Community support groups will be present, offering resources and ways to stay engaged beyond the rally. This is an opportunity for people to stand shoulder to shoulder, march together, and ensure that the people — not the powerful few — shape our future.”
People gather for the “Hands Off” Rally Saturday, April 5, 2025 in downtown Iowa City, Iowa.
Nationwide protests scheduled during military parade in D.C.
The ‘No Kings’ protests are expected in more than 1,000 cities nationwide, according to protest organizers. They will precede a large-scale military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. The parade is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m., though events are scheduled throughout the day.
The celebration will take place one week after Trump mobilized the National Guard in Los Angeles to quell protests against immigration enforcement. Trump has also since mobilized 700 Marines to protect federal buildings and property.
Saturday, June 14, is also Trump’s 79th birthday and Flag Day.
Ryan Hansen covers local government and crime for the Press-Citizen. He can be reached at rhansen@press-citizen.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @ryanhansen01.
This article originally appeared on Iowa City Press-Citizen: When is Iowa City’s ‘No Kings’ protest? What to know