From L.A. to Richmond: ICE protests build toward ‘No Kings Day’ movement

Jun 14, 2025 - 03:25

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From L.A. to Richmond: ICE protests build toward ‘No Kings Day’ movement

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- More than one hundred people came out to Abner Clay Park and marched through downtown Richmond on Friday.

"There is no dignity," said Violeta Vega, an organizer with Richmond's Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). "Immigrants come to this country looking for a better life. Hard workers, my family -- they're hard workers."

The demonstration was marked by chants, signs and a vocal show of solidarity with immigrants across the country -- particularly with protestors in Los Angeles, where tensions have escalated after President Donald Trump deployed National Guard troops and Marines.

“Even though we are all the way over here on the East Coast, we stand with L.A. from L.A. to Richmond, because this affects all of us — they are not just coming for immigrants,” Vega said.

Demonstrators marching in Richmond on June 13, protesting the Trump administration. (Photo: Sara Molina/8News)

Friday’s protest served as a lead-up to what organizers say will be a larger turnout for Richmond’s “No Kings Day” protest at Capitol Square on Saturday. It's part of a nationwide movement, with demonstrations scheduled across the country, focused on opposing the Trump administration.

“One right they cannot take away is our right to revolt,” a speaker said.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R) said he fully supports Trump's actions amid Los Angeles' protests. He said he has been having two meetings a day this past week to discuss how to keep protests in Virginia safe this weekend.

MORE: Youngkin says National Guard is ready ahead of national immigration raid protests

“I fully support our First Amendment and its protection of the right to demonstrate,” Youngkin said. “But I want to be really clear, crystal clear ... if you violate the law, you're going to be arrested.”

He said Virginians should expect to see a visible security presence, including National Guard, Virginia State Police and local law enforcement throughout the weekend.