ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota is set to be a key player in the “No Kings” protest movement this Saturday. Bruce Springsteen will perform “Streets of Minneapolis” in a state still grappling with intense feelings after President Trump’s immigration policies and the tragic shootings of two residents.
Across the entire country, over 3,100 events are organized, anticipating more than 9 million participants. Many of these events are focused in suburbs that are increasingly becoming active in resistance efforts against Trump’s policies.
Organizers have declared the rally at the Capitol in St. Paul as the main event for Saturday, expecting 100,000 attendees. This excitement follows a previous rally in June that attracted around 80,000 people.
Ezra Levin, co-founder of the activist group Indivisible, noted that this movement is gaining global traction. Rallies are also scheduled in countries like Canada, Germany, and Australia. In nations with monarchies, they refer to the protests as “No Tyrants.”
In addition to Springsteen, the St. Paul rally will feature activist icons like Joan Baez, Jane Fonda, and Senator Bernie Sanders, resonating deeply with their long-standing commitments to social justice.
Levin emphasized Minnesota’s unique significance, citing the state’s painful experiences under the Trump administration contrasted with remarkable local grassroots organizing. “The bravery and neighborly spirit here are inspiring for us all,” he said.
This is the third wave of the “No Kings” protests, often described as lively, festival-like gatherings. They stem from a collective of groups opposing what they perceive as growing authoritarianism under Trump. Previous “No Kings” events saw millions participating, with more than 5 million marching in June and over 7 million in October.
The events were initially planned before the tragic deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. Their deaths during a hefty federal police presence in Minnesota have galvanized additional focus on the protests.
Levin remarked that ongoing tensions, like the recent conflict regarding Iran, could bring even more people to the cause.
In a defensive stance, the White House dismissed the protests, with spokesperson Abigail Jackson claiming they are funded by leftist groups and lack genuine public interest. Interestingly, Trump himself has downplayed the protests, stating that they do not represent the broader American population.
Springsteen’s connection to the movement deepens through his poignant songs. He recently crafted “Streets of Minneapolis” to honor local residents who bravely opposed the crackdown. He first performed it at First Avenue nightclub and is expected to repeat it during the rally and again at a concert shortly after.
Springsteen has had his share of public conflict with Trump, who has once labeled him “overrated.” However, the message of unity and resistance against undermining democracy is clear. The tour logo prominently features the “No Kings” slogan, reinforcing a rallying cry for preserving American values.
Springsteen shared his thoughts with The Minnesota Star Tribune, stating: “In moments like this, with something vital to say, it elevates not just the music, but our purpose.”
This protest serves as a call for people to engage and stand up for the ideals they cherish in American democracy.
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Alex Pretti, Bruce Springsteen, Donald Trump, Minnesota, Renee Good, Protests and demonstrations, General news, MN State Wire, Government and politics, Immigration, Political and civil unrest, U.S. news, Joan Baez, Jane Fonda, Abigail Jackson, Iran war, Washington news, Bernie Sanders, Politics
