When the Trump administration decided to throw a military parade on his 79th birthday, San Francisco said, “Not today, dictator”.

On June 14, tens of thousands of Bay Area rebels transformed Dolores Park into ground zero for resistance, marching with fierce determination from the Mission to Civic Center Plaza. This wasn’t just another protest - it was a massive “No Kings” day of defiance against increasingly aggressive immigration enforcement and civil rights violations.

A Movement of Courage

With over 2,000 coordinated protests nationwide, San Franciscans proved that grassroots organizing isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a powerful tool for change. Protesters like Parker, a 22-year-old who was “scared to even show [his] face,” embodied the raw courage driving this movement.

Healthcare and Immigrant Rights Take Center Stage

The rally wasn’t just about opposing Trump - it was about protecting vulnerable communities. Cathy Kennedy from the California Nurses Association called out potential Medicaid cuts that could strip 13.7 million people of healthcare. Meanwhile, Mission Action activists successfully deterred potential ICE operations through collective action.

Resistance with a Side of Hope

Despite the heavy law enforcement presence, the demonstration remained peaceful. Mayor Daniel Lurie even acknowledged the protesters, though some criticized his half-hearted support. The message was clear: San Francisco stands united against authoritarianism, one protest at a time.