‘No Kings’ Protests Sweep Across North Texas in Defiance of Trump Immigration Raids

Amidst chants of “We are the people, we are the power,” thousands gathered in the streets of North Texas on Saturday for synchronized protests labeled “No Kings,” expressing their opposition to immigration raids and policies from the Trump era that they argue jeopardize the foundations of American democracy.

Approximately 10,000 demonstrators gathered in the plaza outside Dallas City Hall, parading through downtown with handmade signs, vocalizing anti-Trump chants, and demanding justice. Despite the large crowd and the presence of a helicopter overhead, the gathering remained calm and orderly. Representatives from the National Lawyers Guild were on-site, while Dallas police, in their usual attire, concentrated on managing traffic.

“Our presence today is a direct response to the anxiety instilled by Trump and ICE,” stated Carlos Quintanilla, an activist from Dallas. “The division of families, operations in workplaces, reductions to community support—this is the reason individuals are protesting.”

Rob Hogue, a commercial attorney, characterized Trump as “the most dangerous president we’ve ever had,” alleging that he has breached due process and has focused on vulnerable communities.

Across Frisco, Fort Worth, McKinney, and Denton, comparable events took place. In a striking display at Burk Burnett Park in Fort Worth, demonstrators brought a unique flair to their protest, with some participants arriving on horseback, donning costumes reminiscent of Mexican revolutionaries and characters from The Handmaid’s Tale, complete with red robes and bonnets. Folk musician Daniel “Boone” Taylor, 75, performed songs from the civil rights era, expressing his stance against “violations of the Constitution.”

In Frisco, a large crowd gathered along FM 423, waving signs while drivers honked in encouragement. Mary Buinger, a former history professor, expressed her concerns regarding the decline of democratic principles through her protest. Joe McInvale, a disabled Army veteran, expressed that Trump's approach to immigrants was “un-American.”

In Denton, turnout mirrored the significant numbers seen during the 2017 protests. City Council Member Brandon Chase McGee emphasized the city's solidarity in upholding constitutional rights: “We are using our voices to affirm what matters.”

Despite the sweltering 100-degree heat, the backing remained steadfast. Elisha Cordeau in McKinney expressed his commitment to supporting marginalized communities: “Whether you’re trans, queer, or an immigrant — we’re here for you.”

In Texas, over 64 demonstrations are set to take place as part of a larger movement that includes more than 2,000 events nationwide. These gatherings are strategically scheduled to coincide with a contentious military parade in Washington, D.C., celebrating both the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army and the 79th birthday of Trump.

Despite its magnitude, aggression was predominantly absent. A handful of counter-protesters showed up in vehicles adorned with Trump flags or gathered near gun shops, yet clashes were few and far between, highlighting the overall serene yet fervent atmosphere of the day.