This weekend, people around the country are gathering in their communities for No Kings, a national day of defiance against authoritarianism.
Forest Park is no exception, as Tom Holmes – a longtime Review columnist – hosts a rally he helped organize on June 14 at Madison Street’s Constitution Court from noon to 4 p.m.
June 14 is President Donald Trump’s birthday, as well as Flag Day – commemorating the day in 1777 when the American flag was adopted. To celebrate turning 80, and the U.S. Army turning 250, Trump is hosting a military parade near the White House that will reportedly cost $30 to $45 million.
Those observing No Kings Day are mobilizing to reject the alleged corruption of the Trump administration and support democracy, according to the No Kings website.
“We’ve watched as they’ve cracked down on free speech, detained people for their political views, threatened to deport American citizens, and defied the courts,” the No Kings website says. “They’ve done this all while continuing to serve and enrich their billionaire allies.”
The website also notes that nonviolence is one of No Kings’ core principles, and that organizers expect participants to de-escalate confrontations.
Ahead of the protest in Forest Park, Compound Yellow Arts Organization is hosting two days of sign making at 244 Lake St. in Oak Park. The group will meet on June 12 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and June 13 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Attendees should bring their own art supplies, and light refreshments and pizza will be provided.
