The state of Florida is preparing for a day of massive mobilizations this Saturday, June 14, organized under the slogan “No Kings,” in rejection of what the organizers describe as acts of authoritarianism by President Donald Trump.
The protests coincide with Trump's 79th birthday, Flag Day, and a military parade in Washington D.C., which is also facing criticism for what many consider a “theatrical and propagandistic” nature.
In parallel to the preparations for the event, Governor Ron DeSantis has issued a stern warning: no disturbances will be allowed.
DeSantis has reminded that in Florida the law HB 1, known as the “anti-riot” law, is in effect, which authorizes the arrest without bail of individuals who participate in assemblies deemed illegal.
The official message is clear: Peaceful protest is allowed, but any attempt at violence will be met with severe repression.
What is the "No Kings" movement?
“No Kings” is a national mobilization driven by organizations such as Indivisible and Movimiento 50501.
The first is a progressive network that emerged after Trump's election in 2016, with over 75 local groups just in Florida.
The second was born on Reddit with the goal of coordinating "50 protests in 50 states in one day."
The organizers insist that these are peaceful demonstrations, called to denounce the rise of authoritarian policies and the use of state apparatus for political spectacle.
They also emphasize that weapons and confrontations will not be tolerated and urge participants to always act within the legal framework.
Official warning: DeSantis and the enforcement of law HB 1
The Florida government has highlighted the enforcement of law HB 1 of 2021, enacted following the protests over the death of George Floyd.
The regulation was reactivated in 2024 by the state Supreme Court, which determined that it does not criminalize peaceful demonstrations, but does enable legal actions against those who engage in violent acts.
Christina Pushaw, senior advisor to DeSantis, reiterated on social media: “People are free to protest, but rioting is illegal in Florida and will face consequences.”
Attorney General James Uthmeier reinforced the message by stating that "disturbances will not be tolerated" under any circumstances.
This Monday, a large demonstration took place in front of the Tampa City Hall.
Tense scenario: Protests over immigration raids and fear of agitators
The social atmosphere in Florida and across the country is particularly tense.
In May, an ICE raid at a construction site in Tallahassee resulted in over 100 people being arrested, which sparked protests outside the state Capitol and reignited the immigration debate.
Indignation has also increased following recent episodes in Los Angeles, where the protests against immigration raids have escalated into confrontations.
The organizers of "No Kings" are concerned that external agitators may attempt to distort the peaceful nature of their actions.
For this reason, they have strengthened coordination with the police and plan to act quickly to identify and isolate provocateurs.
"We always communicate with the police, who have been phenomenal", explained Raquel Pacheco, one of the local leaders of the movement in South Florida.
From Miami to Apalachicola: a network of protests across the state
The protests will span from major cities such as Tampa, Orlando, Miami, and Jacksonville to smaller towns like Apalachicola, reflecting the breadth of social discontent.
In South Florida, concentrations have already been confirmed at key locations such as Bayfront Park (Miami), Pride Park (Miami Beach), Young Circle (Hollywood), and Fort Lauderdale Beach.
A national movement: protests also in other cities in the U.S.
Florida is not alone. Protests will be held in various cities across the country in a coordinated effort to emphasize the rejection of Trump's policies and the recent immigration raids.
Among the most notable recent events:
Austin, Texas: clashes with police following an attempt to vandalize a federal building.
Dallas, Texas: protest declared "illegal gathering" after objects were thrown at police.
Seattle: peaceful protest outside an immigration court.
Santa Ana, California: National Guard presence to prevent disturbances at the Civic Center.
Boston, Massachusetts: mass protest against the detention of union leader David Huerta.
Washington D.C.: unions will march in front of the Department of Justice against ICE raids.
Trump and his administration maintain a firm stance
Despite the increasing protests, the Trump administration has reiterated its determination to continue with immigration raids.
The Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, declared that ICE will continue to “enforce the law,” downplaying the impact of the protests and reinforcing the message of a tough stance.
Final call: Active but responsible participation
"No Kings" calls on all citizens to manifest, but with a firm commitment to non-violence and respect for the legal framework.
"This is not an insurrection or a spectacle; it is the people reminding that power comes not from above, but from below," the organizers state.
The protest points and specific times for this Saturday's demonstration can be found on the official website of the No Kings movement.
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