No Flags Or Fireworks: What Nationwide July 4 Protests Mean For IL

ACROSS ILLINOIS — A new wave of protests against President Donald Trump's administration is set to boycott the traditional parades and fireworks that celebrate America's Independence this week.

The group Indivisible, the grassroots organization that orchestrated the "No Kings" demonstrations on June 14, is joining with other activist groups like Women's March to make July 4 a day of defiant messaging aimed at the current government.

The "No Kings" events brought out an estimated more than five million people on the president's birthday which also coincided with a massive military parade to celebrate 250 years of the U.S. Army and Flag Day.

The People's Union USA, the same group responsible for organizing protests of major retailers like Target and McDonalds, is calling their event "the most important boycott of the year."

July 4 Protests And Boycotts Happening Across The United States

July 4th Silent Protest

• Who: The People's Union
• What: The group is encouraging people to avoid parades, fireworks, flags and corporate spending. The leading organizer is calling for people to stay home with family and friends, and to only shop small, local businesses. Recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests, corporate actions, backlash against protests, and current Trump administration policies are all contributing factors for the event activation.

"This isn’t about standing in the streets. It’s about pulling away our presence and our dollars," John Schwarz added on Instagram.

• When: On July 4
• Where: Across the United States

"Free America" Protests

• Who: Women's March, a nonprofit organization formed from the 2017 Women's March after President Trump's first presidential victory
• What: Block parties where people are called to the streets to protest, build displays such as murals, and enjoy dancing, food and conversation with others.
• When: On July 4
• Where: Across the United States
  • In Illinois, there will be a meetup at the Glenview train station, 1116 Depot Street in Glenview, from 9:15 to 9:40 a.m. Those attending will meet up at the train to take it downtown and to the rally at federal plaza.

"No Kings 2.0"

• Who: Indivisible
• What: Rallys with signs, speakers, etc. similar to the "No Kings" events held on June 14.
• When: On July 4
• Where: Across the United States
  • There is one protest planned for Galena from 11 a.m. to noon on July 4. Those stopping out are encouraged to line up on the sidewalk across from Hotel Galena/Farmker's Guest House, 324 Spring Street. You can get more information here.

Protest the 'Big Bad Bill'

• Who: OneNJ7 (A division of "Indivisible")
• What: A rally against the "big beautiful bill" making its way through Washington. President Trump's package is set to touch the wallets and healthcare of Americans, as well as the southern border and national debt in a number of ways.
• When: On July 4
• Where: Across the United States
  • There will be a rally from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Friday at the clock tower, located at Schaumburg and Roselle roads.

>>> RELATED COVERAGE: July 4 Fireworks Guide 2025: Where To See Them In Illinois

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