'No Kings' Protest Peaceful In City Of Brotherly Love Despite Reported Crowd Of 80,000

PHILADELPHIA, PA — In Philadelphia, "the birthplace of America," Saturday's "No Kings" protest was peaceful, despite huge crowds who turned out in the City of Brotherly Love to take a stand against authoritarianism and President Donald Trump's immigration policy — as well as to fight for human rights, education, the environment and other issues.

According to NBC News, In Philadelphia, crowds at the rally reached 80,000 people at their highest point, police said.

No arrests were made, NBC said.

Fox 29 reported that Martin Luther King III and his wife, Arndrea Waters King, marched in the protest; he delivered a speech at the event.

Police said earlier in the week that the goal was to facilitate a peaceful gathering, according to Fox 29. In a statement, police said: "As with all demonstrations, our priority is to facilitate peaceful protest, prevent violence or disorder, and protect the rights of all residents, businesses, and participants."

"No Kings" rallies were organized nationwide to coincide with a military parade commemorating the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary that falls on Donald Trump’s 79th birthday. June 14 is also Flag Day.

"No Kings is a nationwide day of defiance," according to organizers. "From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism — and show the world what democracy really looks like."