Nationwide Day of Defiance Leads with Faith and Protest
Philadelphia became the center of a nationwide protest on June 14 as tens of thousands gathered for the “No Kings Nationwide Day of Defiance.” Organized by Indivisible and other progressive groups, the rally marked one of over 2,000 events held across the U.S. to denounce President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and his deployment of troops to Los Angeles. The protest was notably interfaith, featuring leaders from Buddhist, Christian, and other religious traditions.
Reverend Barber Urges Unity Amid Grief
The demonstration opened with a solemn moment. Rev. William Barber II called for silence in remembrance of two Minnesota lawmakers shot earlier that day. In a rain-soaked address, Barber criticized Trump’s military parade in Washington, comparing it to those held by autocratic leaders. He reminded the crowd of Philadelphia’s revolutionary legacy, urging nonviolent resistance in the face of “tyrannical rule.”
Faith Leaders Rebuke Trump’s Moral Agenda
Religious attendees played a prominent role. Evangelical Christian Don O’Neill called Trump “satanical” and criticized fellow evangelicals for aligning more with politics than scripture. Catholic deacon Matt Coyne, moved by the march, joined after a service, echoing the message to “love your neighbor.” Unitarian Universalists Craig and Linda Farr cited their faith’s principles of justice and equality as reasons for marching.
Critics Decry Christian Nationalism and Militarism
Episcopal priests Jeremy O’Neill and Luke Selles voiced concern about Christian nationalism and Trump’s immigration stance. O’Neill condemned the use of religion to justify exclusion, saying, “We’re tasked to preach the gospel, which tells us to welcome the stranger.” Protesters also raised concerns about being mischaracterized as violent by the administration.
Broader Political Concerns Surface
Protesters like Jewish Voice for Peace member Laura Avellino criticized Trump’s support for Israel during the Israel-Hamas war, calling it genocidal. Others, like Olivia Wright, worried about the erosion of democracy and rise of authoritarianism. While many doubted the protest would shift Trump’s policies, they believed it could energize a broader movement for justice and compassion.
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At Philadelphia’s ‘No Kings’ protest, faith leaders urge crowd to ‘rebuke hate’
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