SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
In Huntsville and across Alabama, demonstrators rally against authoritarianism, expressing outrage over government excess
HUNTSVILLE, AL — On June 14, 2025, communities across Alabama stood in solidarity with millions of Americans during the nationwide “No Kings Day” protests — a sweeping grassroots movement condemning authoritarianism, excessive government spending, and the financial struggles burdening working families.
Timed to coincide with President Donald Trump’s 79th birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, the protests were triggered in part by what many saw as an extravagant and unnecessary display of power: Trump’s military parade, held in Washington, D.C. at an estimated cost of $25 million to $45 million according to ABC News.
Inside Trump’s $45 Million Birthday Parade
The military parade was billed as a patriotic celebration of the U.S. Army’s founding, but drew sharp criticism for its opulence and political overtones. Taxpayer dollars covered:
• Over 6,600 active-duty troops marching in carefully choreographed formations.
• More than 150 military vehicles, including tanks, Bradley fighting vehicles, and Humvees.
• 50 military aircraft, including stealth bombers, fighter jets, helicopters, and refueling planes.
• Massive security operations, with Secret Service, National Guard, and local police deployed.
• Grandstand construction, staging, logistics, fuel, lodging, and road repairs after heavy equipment damaged parade routes.
Critics, including lawmakers and veterans’ organizations, called the event wasteful at a time when millions of Americans are struggling with everyday expenses. Senator Richard Blumenthal labeled the event “the epitome of government waste”.
Alabamians Grapple with Escalating Financial Hardship
For Alabama residents, frustration over federal spending collided with mounting personal financial struggles:
• Housing Prices: Median home prices have surged to $289,700, up 4.6% year-over-year (Redfin).
• Rent: Monthly rent averages $1,205 statewide, even higher in cities like Huntsville and Birmingham (Redfin).
• Healthcare: National healthcare costs are rising 5% in 2025 (Brown & Brown).
• Cost of Living: Everyday necessities continue to outpace wage growth (Salary.com).
Thousands Protest Across Alabama
At least 14 Alabama cities participated in the movement:
• Mobile: ~2,000 gathered at Government Plaza.
• Montgomery: 400+ assembled at the Archives and History Department.
• Tuscaloosa: Several hundred rallied at the Richard Shelby Federal Courthouse.
• Huntsville: Peaceful demonstrations held at Campus 805.
Nationwide, over 2,100 protests took place, with an estimated 4 to 6 million participants.
A Historic Inflection Point
While the White House touted the parade as a show of patriotism, many Americans saw it as disconnected from their daily realities. For millions struggling with housing, healthcare, and basic expenses, “No Kings Day” was a message that democracy must serve the people — not power itself.
