Dwain Northey (Gen X)

On June 14, Donny DumbAss is set to host a military parade celebrating the U.S. Armed Forces, coinciding with his birthday. The event, reportedly featuring flyovers, marching bands, and speeches, aims to honor military service and patriotism, while also highlighting Donny’s personal connection to national strength and pride. Let’s remind everyone that this is the same guy who got multiple deferments to avoid military service.

However, the same day will also see thousands of Americans participating in peaceful “No Kings” protests across the country. Organized by a broad coalition of civic groups, the protests express concern over what they view as the erosion of democratic norms and growing authoritarian rhetoric in politics. Demonstrators aim to send a unified message: that American leadership must remain accountable to the people, not elevated to monarchical status.

Protest organizers have called for all actions to remain peaceful, emphasizing unity, dialogue, and constitutional values. Many plan to carry signs, chant slogans, and hold moments of silence or reading of historical texts as part of the day’s events.

While the military parade and protests reflect sharply different visions for America, both are rooted in expressions of civic engagement. June 14 promises to be a defining moment, showcasing the freedoms of speech and assembly that remain foundational to the American democratic experiment.