'No Kings' Protests to Sweep the Nation Tomorrow, With Several Planned Across Coachella Valley: What You Need To Know

Tomorrow, the streets of cities across the country will be filled with demonstrators marking “No Kings Day,” a national protest movement focused on anti-authoritarian and anti-monarchy themes. Here in the Coachella Valley, four rallies have been confirmed — including No Kings protests in Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, and Cathedral City, along with a separate anti-ICE protest also scheduled in Cathedral City.

Law enforcement agencies say they’ve been working closely with event organizers to keep everyone safe. NBC Palm Springs' Brett Rosen was live at Cathedral City Hall and spoke with officials about how they’re preparing.

“We want people to exercise their First Amendment rights, and we want them to do it safely,” said officials from both the Palm Springs and Cathedral City police departments. Over the past week, Palm Springs PD held multiple workshops with protest organizers to establish clear guidelines and expectations.

Chief Andy Mills of Palm Springs Police emphasized, “It’s your right to speak your mind, and we are committed to ensuring everyone has that right.”

Protest protocols include no sticks for signs at Palm Springs and Rancho Mirage rallies, and organizers have been advised to ensure rallies don’t obstruct regular business or pedestrian flow. Signs and chants are permitted, but participants are asked to respect public spaces and avoid blocking walkways or roadways.

“If someone is obstructing a public path or roadway, officers will intervene,” explained local protest liaison Nate Hanley. “But expression that reflects people’s values is allowed — and encouraged — within safe boundaries.”

Law enforcement also noted that while most participants act in good faith, they are prepared to respond if any "bad actors" attempt to incite disruption. "You may see officers you recognize, and some you don’t. That’s intentional," said one official. "If you see someone acting suspiciously — particularly anyone trying to incite chaos under the cover of a peaceful crowd — get away and alert officers.”

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, which will oversee the Rancho Mirage rally, echoed similar sentiments. Sheriff Chad Bianco said, “We took a hard line in 2020, and we avoided violence and damage. We’ll do the same now. Our deputies are ready.”

If you plan to attend one of the protests, officials suggest connecting with organizers ahead of time and keeping informed through reliable communication channels.

NBC Palm Springs will continue to cover the demonstrations on our 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. broadcasts, as well as online and across our social media platforms. For the latest updates, visit NBCPalmSprings.com.