On Saturday, June 14, the west steps of the California State Capitol came alive with voices of resistance and vibrant energy. A sea of handmade signs highlighted the creativity of this one part of the nationwide “No Kings” day of protest. What began as a counter to a bloated, costly military parade in Washington, D.C., timed with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and former President Trump’s birthday, became a moving display of unity and civic engagement in a time of division and uncertainty.

Sacramento was one of nearly 2,000 locations across the country where people gathered to voice their opposition to authoritarianism and recent federal immigration actions, including raids and the deployment of military forces in Los Angeles. Despite the serious themes, the atmosphere in Sacramento was electric, filled with music, cheers, and an outpouring of creativity. Protesters crafted signs ranging from sharply witty to deeply heartfelt, highlighting the community’s commitment to justice, democracy, and compassion.

By mid-morning, the crowd had exceeded the anticipated 5,000, spilling down 10th Street and prompting police to temporarily close the area to traffic. Speakers, including Congresswoman Doris Matsui, Sacramento City Councilmembers Roger Dickinson and Mai Vang, California State Senators, and local labor leaders and activists addressed the crowd, weaving together themes of resistance, unity, and hope.

What stood out most was the overwhelming sense of community, neighbors coming together to stand up for shared values and envision a better future. There was laughter amidst the frustration, community members handing out free water, group pictures, and multiple generations standing together. 

Elsewhere in Northern California, No Kings protests in San Francisco and Oakland drew tens of thousands of participants.

From the youngest marchers to longtime activists, the June 14 protest was not just a demonstration, but a celebration of people power.