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A wave of political activism is sweeping across the country this weekend as thousands prepare to take part in the No Kings protests, a massive daylong demonstration taking place today, October 18. The movement, backed by major civil rights and progressive organizations, is calling out what organizers describe as “abuse of power” by President Donald Trump and his administration’s lingering influence on U.S. policy.
According to ABC, organizers say more than 2,600 events are planned across the U.S., spanning major cities including New York, Washington D.C., Chicago, and Los Angeles. The protests are being coordinated by a coalition of groups, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Indivisible, and 50501, among others. Organizers expect millions of people to participate throughout the day, marking one of the largest coordinated demonstrations since the summer’s mid-June protests.
Jane Fonda, Kerry Washington, John Legend & More Expected To Attend No Kings Protests
The movement is also drawing support from a growing list of celebrities who have become outspoken about social justice and democracy. According to a Thursday fundraising email from the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, Hollywood stars Jane Fonda, Kerry Washington, John Legend, Alan Cumming, and John Leguizamo are among those slated to attend the events.
Back in June, Kerry Washington voiced her support for the No Kings movement on Instagram, posting photos of herself with fellow demonstrators and writing, “#NoKings, just some QUEENS I found marching, speaking up, and fighting for Democracy.” Given her past involvement, it wouldn’t be surprising if the actress once again lends her voice to the cause.
Plus, on October 15, 2025, actor Alan Cumming took to Instagram to voice his support for the No Kings protests. The demonstrations were organized in opposition to the policies and what protesters describe as the “increasing authoritarianism” of President Donald Trump. In his video message, Cumming delivered a passionate plea for peaceful resistance, reminding viewers, “In America… we have no kings.” He urged supporters to speak out boldly but avoid violence, emphasizing the importance of maintaining integrity amid political division.
Cumming’s message aligns closely with his long-held anti-authoritarian views. The actor has previously been outspoken about power, privilege, and inequality, even going so far as to return his OBE award in protest of the British monarchy. His continued activism underscores a consistent call for democracy, accountability, and nonviolent expression.
What is the No Kings Movement?
The No Kings movement aims to highlight what advocates describe as systemic overreach and political corruption. Saturday’s protests are expected to center around issues like immigration reform, police militarization, health care access, and voting rights.
“We’ll be in the streets for immigrant families under attack and for voters who are being silenced,” the Progressive Change Campaign Committee wrote in the email. “For communities being terrorized by militarized policing, for families about to lose their health insurance, and for every single person whose rights are threatened by this administration’s cruelty.”
With demonstrations planned in nearly every state, the No Kings protests are poised to make headlines nationwide. Whether as participants or supporters, many public figures, from activists to entertainers, say they’ll be using their platforms to amplify the message that power belongs to the people, not political kings.
