Denise Ortiz protesting at city hall
Photo by Richard C. Vara M.A.
By Richard C. Vara, M.A.
Editor-in-Chief, The VCR Show
June 17, 2025
HOUSTON — On a sweltering day in Houston, thousands of residents from all walks of life gathered for the No Kings Day protest to speak out against the Trump administration’s policies. The demonstration began in downtown Houston and ended at City Hall. According to event organizers, more than 26,000 people turned out to peacefully voice their concerns.
According to MSNBC, an estimated 5 million people may have joined similar protests nationwide, potentially making it one of the largest mass demonstrations in U.S. history.
Protesters in Houston expressed frustration over mass deportations and proposed cuts to Medicare and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP. About 41.7 million to 42 million Americans — roughly 12 to 12.6% of the population — currently receive SNAP benefits, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
| Time period | People covered | % of U.S. population |
|---|---|---|
| Fiscal 2024 | 41.7 million | 12.3% |
| February 2025 | 42 million | 12.6% |
While a variety of issues were raised, many participants focused on what they described as the administration’s disregard for due process in immigration enforcement.
Young women protesting
Photo by Richard C. Vara M.A.
The U.S. Supreme Court recently blocked the Trump administration from using the Alien Enemies Act — a law dating back to 1798 — to expedite deportations. The justices ruled that migrants must be given proper notice and an opportunity to challenge their removal in court, reinforcing due process protections.
According to a press release from the Department of Homeland Security, more than 158,000 arrests occurred in early 2025, with deportations exceeding 142,000 — a clear indication of the administration’s stepped-up immigration efforts.
Taylor and Jonathan Williamson were among the many at the protest voicing concern about the ongoing deportations.
“Some of my clients have been detained by ICE recently,” said Taylor Williamson, who runs a community-based mental health organization that supports people on Medicaid, including undocumented immigrants. “It really breaks my heart, and it destroys me. That’s one of the main reasons I’m here.”
Jonathan Williamson, who is sponsoring an individual for citizenship, echoed her frustration.
“When I hear about a kid getting detained, we’re crying regularly in my household,” he said.
Protesters also expressed anger toward Texas Gov. Greg Abbott for his support of the Trump administration and his welcome of ICE raids in the state. Some carried signs referencing Abbott by the nickname “Hot Wheels,” a reference to his use of a wheelchair.
Man protesting Trump
Photo by Richard C. Vara M.A.
The protest coincided with President Donald Trump’s birthday, as well as the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. Many participants noted the significance of the date, viewing the demonstration as a symbolic stand for democracy, accountability, and constitutional values.
Caroline Salinas, says it all
Photo by Richard C. Vara M.A.
