News Summary
Social justice groups across the U.S. are preparing for the ‘No Kings National Day of Defiance’ protests on June 14, coinciding with Flag Day and President Trump’s birthday. Organizers aim to confront perceived authoritarianism through peaceful demonstrations in various South Carolina cities, including Greenville and Charleston. Despite concerns from state officials regarding public safety, organizers emphasize nonviolent assembly and trained de-escalators for the protests, fostering civic dialogue and opposition to current administration policies.
Columbia, South Carolina – Social justice groups across the United States are mobilizing for nationwide protests on June 14, as part of the “No Kings National Day of Defiance.” The demonstrations are organized by the 50501 movement and are intended to coincide with Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday, along with the 250th anniversary of the founding of the U.S. Army. The protests aim to challenge what organizers describe as Trump’s authoritative dominance.
Protests are set to unfold in multiple cities in South Carolina, including Spartanburg, Seneca, Rock Hill, Columbia, Pendleton, and Charleston. Notably, a large military parade is planned to begin in Washington, D.C., at 6:30 p.m. ET, associated with the president’s birthday and the Army’s anniversary. Organizers criticize the parade for utilizing the military as a “pawn” instead of honoring the nation’s veterans.
In Greenville, a local coalition is hosting a protest titled “Valor Over Vanity” at Unity Park starting at 10 a.m. on June 14. The 50501 movement promotes the idea of “50 protests in 50 states on 1 day,” showcasing grassroots opposition to the current administration’s policies. Various other local groups, such as Indivisible Upstate SC and We the People Greenville, are also organizing protests in Greenville, while additional events are planned in Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Columbia.
Details surrounding the planned demonstrations have prompted concern from state officials. South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson has issued a public safety advisory regarding the upcoming weekend protests, indicating that law enforcement will be vigilant to ensure public safety. Wilson’s office highlighted that violence, vandalism, and intimidation against law enforcement officers would not be tolerated, stating that individuals who harm property or other individuals will face arrest and prosecution.
Despite the concerns raised by state officials regarding potential violence, the organizers of the protests, including members from the Greenville Progressive Coalition, are committed to ensuring peaceful demonstrations. They have planned for trained de-escalators to be present at the protests, aimed at maintaining a nonviolent atmosphere throughout the events. Organizers encourage participants to remain peaceful, lawful, and to de-escalate confrontations should they arise.
Governor Henry McMaster of South Carolina and his North Carolina counterpart, Josh Stein, have both acknowledged public safety concerns related to the protests. Their administration emphasizes the importance of maintaining order during the demonstrations while supporting citizens’ rights to assemble peacefully.
In Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina, a total of 17 protests are organized for the “No Kings” campaign. The activism associated with the 50501 movement seeks to galvanize civic engagement across the country, focusing on themes of rejecting authoritarian rule and advocating for citizens’ rights. Demonstrations are intended to foster dialogue around these issues while providing a platform for dissenting voices to be heard.
In summary, the “No Kings National Day of Defiance” protests scheduled for June 14 aim to confront President Trump’s policies and planned military celebration, with a commitment to uphold peaceful assembly. Organizers and city officials are working together to create an environment conducive to lawful protests, allowing citizens to express their perspectives on governance and authority.
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Protests Planned Across South Carolina Against Trump
Additional Resources
- Greenville Online
- Google Search: No Kings National Day of Defiance
- WYFF 4
- Wikipedia: Flag Day
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protest
- CBS News
- Google News: Trump protests June 14 2025
Author: HERE Rock Hill
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