Thousands take to the streets in Chico on June 14 in the No Kings protest. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

It feels good to be among the millions of people to protest June 14 in the No Kings demonstrations throughout the country.

Most protests began before Trump’s birthday party for himself in Washington later that day. Sure, it was also the Army’s 250th birthday, but we all know why this military parade was staged.

No Kings is all about shouting down his authoritarian rule, his policies, his hatred.

The Chico gathering brought out about 6,000 people, according to organizers. It was so well attended that walkers began before the scheduled 10 a.m. start to free up space at the assembly area.

We were orderly, peaceful and respectful.

There were chants of no kings and immigrants are welcome.

Signs show people’s various issues with the Trump administration. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

When it came time to cross one of the downtown streets organizers made sure participants stopped on yellow lights so it would be clear when it turned green. No vehicle traffic was blocked.

Several people carried U.S. flags hung upside down. This is a symbol of distress.

While the MAGA faithful seemed to have co-opted the U.S. flag in recent years, it was reassuring to see organizers handing out small flags for people to carry. After all, the stars and stripes don’t belong to a political party.

It’s important we speak our truths, we call out injustices, we condemn political killings like the one in Minnesota.

It’s important we treat all people as the human beings they are no matter ancestry, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender or other identifying characteristic.

People are people. And we are a people who live in a democracy … for now.