This July 4, many Americans are forgoing traditional Independence Day celebrations and instead taking to the streets to protest President Donald Trump. These demonstrations mark the latest in a series of actions by left-wing groups since Trump returned to the White House for a second term.
On June 14, during a massive military parade in Washington, D.C., Trump warned that protesters would be “met with big force,” labeling them “people that hate our country.” In response, nationwide “No Kings” protests were organized to denounce what activists called rising authoritarianism.
Protests have also erupted over immigration policies, particularly controversial ICE raids. In Los Angeles, demonstrations drew national attention after Trump deployed the National Guard and later the Marines—despite opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom. A legal battle followed, but an appeals court upheld Trump’s authority in the matter.
In April, protests extended beyond the U.S., with coordinated events in London, Paris, and Stockholm targeting both Trump and his then-ally Elon Musk, who briefly headed the Department of Government Efficiency before a public split.
Now, on Independence Day, groups such as the Women’s March are organizing over 140 events under the banner of “Free America Weekend.” These include marches, rallies, and community gatherings intended to highlight issues like poverty, fear-based politics, and oppression. “We’ll gather across the country… to stand for real freedom and build a vision of a Free America,” the Women’s March stated.
The “No Kings 2.0” protests, planned in at least a dozen states including Wisconsin, Louisiana, and Wyoming, will focus on immigration, solidarity with immigrants, and opposition to ICE raids. Organizers have emphasized nonviolence.
In Florida, activists will rally near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago estate, reviving the “Baby Trump” balloon used in previous protests. Meanwhile, The People’s Union USA is encouraging a stay-at-home protest—boycotting parades, fireworks, and large corporations in favor of local spending. “Do not wave a flag for a country that no longer waves it for you,” said group founder John Schwarz, challenging Americans to reflect on the true meaning of freedom this July 4.
