No Kings protest Philly: Thousands March Against Trump and ICE

No Kings Protest In Philadelphia — Source: NurPhoto / Getty

Philadelphia’s “No Kings” protest against President Donald Trump took place Saturday as demonstrators took to Benjamin Franklin Parkway to peacefully protest the current administration.

The rally comes amid heightened protests against immigration detainment and enforcement as well as the president’s deployment of the National Guard and over 700 members of the Marine Corps.

What is No Kings?

The “No Kings” theme was orchestrated by the 50501 Movement, a national movement made up of Americans who oppose what they call the authoritarian actions of the Trump administration. The name 50501 stands for 50 states, 50 protests, one movement.

The “No Kings” march in Philadelphia started around 10 a.m. at Love Park on 16th Street between JFK Boulevard and Cherry Street, on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway between 16th and 17th streets, and on Arch Street between 15th and 16th streets. By 12:30 p.m., the march made its way down the Parkway to the rally location at Eakins Oval and the Philadelphia Museum of Art East Apron. The rally took place at 1 p.m. and lasted up until 3 p.m.

Philadelphia announced several road closures and changes to SEPTA’s bus schedule ahead of the protest.

“As with all demonstrations, our priority is to facilitate peaceful protest, prevent violence or disorder, and protect the rights of all residents, businesses, and participants. we train our officers accordingly and deploy resources proportionate to the potential needs of the event.” Philadelphia Police said in a statement.

Martin Luther King III spoke to protesters in Philadelphia, encouraging them to keep the fight, and not lose sight of the importance of the mission: democracy.

“We still believe in a nation without kings, without tyrants, without rulers who place themselves above the law,” King III said. “We are here to say this land belongs to the people, not to the monarchs, not to the autocrats, not to strong men, but to the people. You.”

According to sources, nearly 80,000 people protested in Philadelphia for the ‘No Kings’ demonstration. The crowd dispersed shortly after 6 p.m. and no injuries were reported.

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