GLENDALE, Calif. — Demonstrators gathered by the hundreds in Glendale on Saturday, joining millions across the United States and Europe in coordinated “No Kings” rallies protesting President Donald Trump and his policies.
In Glendale, protesters lined sidewalks along Glendale Avenue and Broadway, waving signs, chanting and speaking with passersby as temperatures climbed. Participants ranged from young families to older residents, many standing for hours to make their voices heard.
The demonstrations are part of a broader grassroots movement that has drawn millions in recent months. Organizers say turnout has steadily grown, with participation reaching into the millions nationwide during previous rounds of protests.
Among those speaking out was the Rev. Julie Davis, who described her upbringing in a conservative evangelical household and said her political awakening came later in life.
“I wasn’t prepared at school, home or church for any of this,” Davis said. “It took a long time to root in me.”
Addressing the crowd, she framed the protest as both a political and moral stand.
“When you come for our city, love and defiance grow,” Davis said. “When you come for our democracy, love and defiance grow. Every time you try to push us down, we will stand up and push back.”
Others echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing civic responsibility and solidarity.
“We’ve got to stand up for what’s right,” said Heather who was there with her grand daughter 6 month old Ellie, who traveled from nearby Burbank. “A lot of people don’t have that chance, so we are very fortunate.”
For Tracy Sosa, a LAUSD teacher, the protest was also about education policy. She said recent federal actions have had direct consequences in classrooms.
“It’s affecting special education programs. It’s affecting the money that we get. It’s affecting how we’re able to do our jobs,” Sosa said. “It’s affecting teachers, but mostly it’s affecting students.”
She added that government priorities should be redirected. “Money isn’t where it should be. It should be with kids in a classroom and protecting their rights,” she said.
While organizers describe the demonstrations as a reflection of widespread public concern, the White House has dismissed the movement. Spokesperson Abigail Jackson characterized the protests as driven by “leftist funding networks” and lacking broad support.
Still, for many in Glendale, the turnout itself was a source of reassurance.
“There are lots of seniors here who came on their own,” one attendee said. “People out in the sun, even if they have trouble with mobility — that says something.”
A woman who brought her 93-year-old grandmother said, the gatherings serve as a reminder that they are not alone.
“I think it’s important that we don’t just sit at home and do nothing,” another protester said. “It’s nice to be around like-minded people.”
As the crowd slowly thinned into the afternoon, many lingered — continuing conversations, holding signs and signaling what they say is an ongoing commitment to speak out.
