Millions of Americans across all 50 states marched in coordinated protests against the Trump administration on Saturday, with demonstrators warning that the country is sliding into authoritarianism. The 'No Kings' protests marked the second such mass mobilisation this year, following a June event that was one of the largest days of protest in US history.
In cities large and small, protesters carried signs, marched with bands, and donned inflatable animal costumes, particularly frogs, which have become a symbol of resistance originating in Portland, Oregon. The demonstrations represented a shift in Democratic energy, with organisers saying the party is finally showing resolve after recent electoral defeats.
In Chicago, at least 10,000 people gathered in Grant Park, with some estimates later reaching 100,000. Chants of 'Fuck Donald Trump' erupted when Representative Jonathan Jackson took the stage. Mayor Brandon Johnson told the crowd the Trump administration wanted 'a rematch of the civil war', adding: 'We will not bend, we will not bow, we will not cower.'
In Portland, Oregon, the main march was peaceful, but a smaller protest outside an immigration detention centre was met with force. Reports said federal agents hurled gas canisters at demonstrators shortly before a scheduled 5pm protest.
Ginny Eschbach, 72, attended her 42nd protest since January in Los Angeles, dressed as SpongeBob SquarePants. 'I wanted to be whimsical, because I think that lets them know we are serious, however we are not dangerous and we are not violent,' she said, adding that the erosion of free speech was her gravest concern.
