News Summary
On June 14, nationwide protests, dubbed the ‘No Kings’ movement, are set to occur in response to President Trump’s policies, including a military parade. Organizers aim to express opposition to authoritarianism and call for democracy without ‘kings’ in the U.S. Various locations in South Carolina and North Carolina will host gatherings to promote social justice and constitutional values. Despite concerns from state officials about potential violence, the organizers emphasize their commitment to peaceful demonstrations.
City: Nationwide Protests Scheduled for June 14 in Response to Trump’s Policies and Military Parade
The “No Kings” protests are set to occur nationwide on Saturday, June 14, coinciding with Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s birthday. These events have been organized as a response to various policies enacted by the President, including his military parade and recent raids by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Demonstrators will gather under the slogan “No Kings,” which represents a rejection of authoritarianism, and convey their message that there should be no thrones, crowns, or kings in the democratic framework of the United States.
In the Upstate region of South Carolina and Western North Carolina, there are 17 scheduled protests at various locations and times throughout the day. Specific events include:
- Pendleton: Pendleton Square, 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Greenwood: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
- Greenville: Unity Park, 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Seneca: Seneca City Hall, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Spartanburg: Morgan Square, 4 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Asheville: Martin Luther King Jr Park, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
- Black Mountain: Black Mountain Town Square, 3:45 p.m. – 5 p.m.
- Waynesville: Haywood County Courthouse, 12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
- Hendersonville: March from new courthouse on Grove Street to historic courthouse, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Sylva: In front of JC Public Library, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- Highlands: U.S. Postal Service, 12:30 p.m. – 2 p.m.
- Marion: McDowell County Courthouse, 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
- Rutherfordton: Private address (sign up for details), 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Spindale/Forest City: Private address (sign up for details), 9 a.m. – 11 a.m.
- Bryson City: 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
- Brevard: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- Burnsville: Private address (sign up for details), 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
The protests have garnered attention from various officials, including South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and North Carolina Governor Josh Stein, who have expressed concerns regarding potential violence during the demonstrations. In light of this, a spokesperson for the “No Kings” initiative has emphasized the commitment of organizers to peaceful protesting. Additionally, a public safety advisory has been issued by South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, reiterating that violence and vandalism will not be tolerated.
This “No Kings National Day of Defiance” is part of a broader grassroots initiative organized by the 50501 movement, which aims to encourage protests in all 50 states on the same day. The planned military parade, which is set to coincide with the President’s birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, is expected to have a substantial financial implication, with costs projected to reach approximately $45 million.
Local groups, such as the Greenville Progressive Coalition, are facilitating events with specific themes, notably one titled “Valor Over Vanity,” which aims to honor veterans while emphasizing the significance of constitutional values in the American democratic process.
South Carolina Democratic Party Chair Christale Spain has publicly criticized the Attorney General’s public safety advisory, referring to it as a political maneuver intended to intimidate peaceful protesters. This statement underscores the tension surrounding the upcoming protests and reflects broader political divisions in the region.
As the June 14 protests draw near, demonstrators across the nation prepare to express their concerns regarding current policies while promoting the ideals of democracy and social justice.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
US Marines Deployed in LA Amid Immigration Protests
Nationwide Protests Erupt Against Immigration Raids
Additional Resources
- WYFF4
- Greenville Online
- ABC News 4
- The State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Protests
- Google Search: No Kings Protests
Author: HERE Greenwood
The HERE Greenwood Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenwood community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenwood Our team includes lifelong Greenwood residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent listing of the historic Grier Building, Greenwood’s railroad and textile heritage, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Piedmont Technical College programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
