No Kings protests draw massive crowds in Monterey County.

Monterey and Salinas were sites of peaceful yet spirited No Kings protests on Saturday, June 14, drawing the largest crowds in recent memory.

At least 5,000 people joined the Monterey event, lining both sides of Del Monte Boulevard at Window on the Bay, stretching for nearly a half-mile. In Salinas, nearly 2,000 people lined both sides of a four-block section of South Main Street.

American flags featured prominently in both protests, with patriotic displays on Flag Day and for the 250th birthday of the United States Army. The nationwide No Kings protest movement was planned in response to President Donald Trump requesting a military parade to mark the occasion – which also falls on his 79th birthday – on June 14. Approximately 2,000 No Kings protests were organized across the U.S. on the same day, drawing millions of protesters speaking out in resistance.

Many signs focused on U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, including signs that read: “Bring JC home,” referring to Juan Carlos Portillo, a Salvadoran immigrant who lives in Seaside and works in Pacific Grove. The asylum seeker was detained by ICE on June 4. Other messages included: “I like my ICE crushed,” “Fuck ICE,” “Break ICE,” and “ICE melts under heat.”

Camila Castro of Salinas says she came out to the protest to represent “those who cannot speak,” her family and other loved ones who are scared in light of the Trump Administration’s efforts to detain and deport people. She was heartened by the strong show of support.

“I think it’s beautiful. It’s kind of nice to know I’m not the only one feeling sad, alone and angry,” Castro says.