On 28 March, the third iteration of the No Kings protests will unfold across the United States, with organisers anticipating unprecedented participation. Ezra Levin, co-founder of Indivisible, a key group in the protest coalition, believes this event could become “the biggest protest in American history.” The demonstrations are a direct response to escalating concerns regarding the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), particularly following recent fatalities in Minnesota.
A Flagship Event in Minnesota
While protests will span the entire nation, the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St Paul will serve as the focal point for the demonstrations. This choice comes on the heels of tragic incidents in which federal agents claimed the lives of two local residents, Alex Pretti and Renee Nicole Good, in January. Levin described the upcoming No Kings rally as a necessary expression of discontent with what many perceive as ICE and the Department of Homeland Security’s “reign of terror” in communities across America.
The No Kings Coalition previously organised a “weekend of action” immediately after Good’s death, which saw over 1,000 events, including vigils and protests. Recent polling indicates a significant shift in public sentiment, with more Americans now favouring the abolition of ICE than opposing it. Levin optimistically envisions the forthcoming protests as a vibrant, nonviolent demonstration of collective American values.
The Evolution of the No Kings Movement
The inaugural No Kings protest took place in the summer of 2025, emerging from a growing apprehension regarding authoritarianism under the Trump administration. Following the successful “Hands Off” rallies, the movement has gathered momentum, drawing in participants from a broad spectrum of organisations, including labour unions, legal advocacy groups like the American Civil Liberties Union, and the Movement for Black Lives.
In the previous No Kings protests held in October, an astonishing 7 million demonstrators took to the streets. This time, the coalition aims to increase attendance to 9 million, reflecting the escalating urgency of their cause. In their announcement, organisers reaffirmed their commitment to safety and nonviolence, highlighting that trained individuals will be present to ensure the protests remain peaceful and lawful.
The Role of Protests in Shaping Policy
As the nation gears up for this significant mobilization, the effectiveness of protests in influencing policy remains a subject of debate. While the ultimate impact of the No Kings protests on the current administration is yet to be determined, experts assert that collective action can indeed reshape public opinion and policy decisions.
Historically, the past year has seen a rise in innovative protest tactics aimed at countering ICE’s operations. From mobilising musicians to serenade agents out of hotels to residents banging pots and pans in defiance, these grassroots strategies have proven to be both effective and creative. Erica Chenoweth, a researcher on protest movements, noted that we are witnessing an unprecedented level of grassroots organisation, with citizens actively engaging in their communities like never before.
Building a Movement for the Future
Levin emphasised that the No Kings 3 event is not merely a one-off occurrence; it is part of a broader movement aimed at countering authoritarianism and advocating for systemic change. He called for continued pressure on political leaders, urging figures such as House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer to demand the resignation of Kristi Noem, the current Secretary of Homeland Security.
The organisers are committed to maintaining momentum, recognising that mass protests alone are insufficient for long-term change. They continue to offer online training sessions to equip individuals with the skills needed to document and observe ICE activities safely. With over 200,000 participants already engaged in these sessions, the coalition is poised to expand its reach and impact.
Why it Matters
The upcoming No Kings protests represent a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against perceived governmental overreach and the treatment of immigrant communities in the United States. As public sentiment shifts and grassroots movements gain traction, these demonstrations may well serve as a catalyst for significant policy changes. The emphasis on unity and nonviolence underscores a profound aspiration for a more inclusive and just society, making the stakes higher than ever.
