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Pro-democracy demonstrators filled overpasses and lined major roads across Northern Virginia on Saturday, June 14, joining millions of people nationwide for “No Kings Day” protests against actions by the Trump administration.
At an overpass above Interstate 495 in Annandale, the usual quiet near surrounding parkland gave way to waving American flags, densely packed protesters and a steady chorus of supportive horns from passing cars and trucks.
Dianne Tenny of Fairfax said the shootings of Democratic lawmakers in Minnesota and the escalating federal response to unrest in Los Angeles made public action more urgent.
“People need to be held accountable, and people need to take action before it gets worse,” Tenny said.
The demonstrations coincided with Flag Day and served as a counterpoint to the military parade in Washington marking the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary. June 14 was also President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday.
Dozens of Virginia grassroots organizations participated, while events were held in hundreds of cities across every state. One of the day’s largest gatherings took place in Philadelphia, where national organizers sought to focus attention on the birthplace of the Constitution and the American flag.
Indivisible described “No Kings” as a nationwide mobilization responding to what the organization considers growing authoritarianism and corruption by Trump and his allies. Its broader strategy includes reclaiming the American flag as a symbol within the movement.
Organizers report growing participation
Marianna Burke, Fairfax Indivisible’s lead and a local organizer, called the Northern Virginia turnout a success. She pointed to increased network television coverage compared with previous demonstrations and the Washington military parade.
Burke said participation has grown since the “Hands Off” protests on April 5 and May Day events on May 1.
“A lot of people not paying attention or not willing to get out before, now are ready to get out,” she said.
Burke said organizers also supported the Army’s anniversary, noting that veterans attended with supportive messages, large “Go Army” signs and American flags.
“What we don’t support is autocratic governance, consolidating power and crushing resistance,” she said.
Registrations for local visibility events rose sharply after the administration sent National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles amid immigration enforcement raids, according to organizers.
Participants received guidance on avoiding confrontation and de-escalating tense encounters. Local Indivisible leaders counted six passing drivers making obscene gestures at one location but reported no other counterprotests, violence or arrests.
Organizers also said they appreciated Fairfax County police officers’ proactive presence at the demonstrations.
Lawmakers receive heightened security advice
Security concerns intensified after Minnesota state Rep. Melissa Hortman and her husband were shot in their home early June 14. State Sen. John Hoffman and his wife were also shot at their residence.
Virginia Del. Laura Jane Cohen, a Democrat representing the 15th District, said legislators received frequent updates that morning from House Speaker Don Scott, Virginia State Police Superintendent Col. Matthew Hanley and Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell.
Cohen said county police provided safety guidance, including advice not to open the door for police unless two officers were present. Gov. Glenn Youngkin also sent lawmakers a message advising them to stay home from protests.
Cohen and other legislators nevertheless attended local demonstrations without incident. She criticized Trump’s treatment of protesters, saying it was a troubling juxtaposition on Flag Day for a president to portray demonstrators as enemies.
Fairfax Indivisible was established in 2017 and is affiliated with the national Indivisible organization. The political action group advocates on legislation, organizes volunteers, supports progressive candidates regardless of party affiliation and assists with election information and monitoring.
Flag Day marks the adoption of the United States flag in 1777. The Army traces its founding to June 14, 1775.