The streets of downtown Phoenix witnessed a massive wave of protestors this past Saturday, where thousands rallied against President Donald Trump and his policies, particularly on immigration. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, demonstrators voiced their concerns, with Lisa Mariso stating, "We are out here because we are against fascism, and as we learn in history, we see the same signs happening that we see in pre-war Germany, in pre-war Bosnia, all those places, and we don't want to see it happen in America."
The Phoenix protest, which featured homemade signs that read "We elected a president, not a king," was part of a larger nationwide movement consisting of more than 1,000 coordinated "No King" protests. Organized by 50501, representing 50 states, 50 protests, one movement, these gatherings were a direct response to the celebrations in Washington D.C. for both Trump's birthday, and the U.S. Army's 250th birthday, FOX 10 Phoenix reported.
Amid Arizona's blistering heat, around 5,000 participants according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety, gathered at the state Capitol. Event organizers, however, placed attendance at 15,000. The protests spanned various issues but were particularly focused on Trump's aggressive deportation policies and recent raids by U.S. Department of Homeland Security in Phoenix, as detailed by Arizona Mirror.
Participants of the rallies also included notable figures, like Phoenix City Councilwoman Ana Hernandez, who addressed the crowd about political violence, following the assassination of Minnesota Democratic legislator Melissa Hortman and the critical injury of Sen. John Hoffman and his wife. According to a Arizona Mirror interview, Hernandez emphasized, "Political violence and political assassinations are real and cannot be tolerated." A moment of silence was held for the lawmakers as well.
In contrast to other cities, the protests in Arizona remained largely peaceful with only a minor altercation involving a man in a pickup truck and protestors at the state Capitol. The Arizona Department of Public Safety hasn't commented on the incident, as told by the Arizona Mirror. Meanwhile, messages of solidarity and support for the LGBTQ community were evident amidst the crowd, as June is recognized as Pride month. Adding to the events of the day, local performers brought entertainment with undertones of political satire.
As the day continued, protestors, like Scottsdale resident Mike Yarnall expressed their stance, with Yarnall quoting, "Imagine if that had stopped President George Washington at Valley Forge," in an interview with the Arizona Mirror, highlighting the protestors' resilience against the high temperatures. The day wrapped up with talks of future events and the promotion of continuous civic engagement from the attendees.
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