NYC protests draw thousands as part of national "No Kings Day"
Tens of thousands of demonstrators marched along Fifth Avenue in New York City on Saturday for a "No Kings" protest.
Organizers said the marches, held nationwide, were in response to President Trump's policies and a parade he hosted Saturday celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States Army. The parade coincided with the president's 79th birthday, which he said was unrelated.
"No Kings" protesters say they're defending democracy
There were multiple "No Kings" protests planned across the city's five boroughs and in the northern suburbs.
One rally started in Bryant Park before the crowd began marching, armed with their voices and signs.
"The atmosphere here is eclectic. It's energetic. People are angry. People are upset ... But most importantly, people are here," protester Calan Ibrahim said.
These demonstrations come on the heels of flared-up protests over U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids across the country, including in Los Angeles and in New York.
Many protesters told CBS News New York they feel they're defending democracy.
"I'm flying the flag upside down because it's supposed to symbolize that we are in a constitutional crisis right now," Ibrahim said.
"This country was born in fighting and ending a kingship over us, and never again will we accept that or go near it," said Bobby Greenberg, a protester and teacher.
"The power should really be with the people," demonstrator Maria Garcia said.
Some protesters called for an end to ICE raids.
"Really trying to prove the point that ICE has no business in this city or in this country," protester Janet Astadillo said.
Mayor Eric Adams said more than 34,000 members of the New York City Police Department were on hand and warned that escalations of violence and property damage will not be tolerated.
Police said between the No King Day rallies and pro-Palestinian protests in the area, at least eight people were arrested. Their charges are unknown at this time.
