💌 Good News from the Resistance: June 15-21, 2025
Welcome to How to Resist, a blueprint for resistance based on nonviolence, mutual aid, and community building for ordinary people who want to save democracy.
(Listen to the author’s letter by pressing the play button above.)
Dear Resisters,
After last weekend’s massive “No Kings Day” protests, where an estimated 1–2% of the entire U.S. population took to the streets, I felt it would be natural for there to be fewer actions to report on this week. But, as I really should know by now, the resistance is nothing if not full of surprises.
First of all, there were fewer protests to be sure, but a marked increase in cultural resistance. At a Dodgers game, singer Nezza defied instructions and sang the national anthem in Spanish, to honor her immigrant roots and to protest ICE raids in the Los Angeles area. The Dodgers themselves took a bold stand, pledging $1 million to support immigrant families and denying ICE access to their stadium. Across the country, soccer fans and players are turning their games into platforms for protest, rejecting xenophobia and standing up for inclusion. Actors and drag performers are refusing to be silenced as they find creative ways to challenge changes to the Kennedy Center and the defunding of the National Queer Theater.
I love seeing these actions because they’re a reminder that resistance isn’t just about oppositional politics; it’s also about culture and how we express our humanity, whether through theater, performance, song, or sports.
Second, a new front in the resistance emerged this week: the fight to stop another war. Wednesday marked the first national day of action against war with Iran, with protests in at least a dozen cities. From New York to Los Angeles, people gathered to say clearly: we will not be dragged into another endless war— especially not one designed to distract from ICE raids, data breaches, and the erosion of civil liberties.
As the resistance moves forward, we will need to keep evolving, not just in how we respond, but in where we show up. In this week’s round-up, we see theaters and stadiums as new frontlines—places where people are reclaiming space, asserting identity, and refusing to surrender their humanity.
The threat of strikes against Iran presents an interesting moment for the resistance, one in which we must anticipate and resist crises that are being manufactured to distract, divide, and destabilize, while also staying true to our values. We know now that Trump uses shock rhetoric, urgency, and delays to dominate the media and set the national conversation, and we’re going to have to find a way to wrestle that spotlight back onto what truly matters — the people.
The week and the events of last weekend has made it clear that the resistance is growing not just in size, but in sophistication. And that gives me hope that whatever comes next, we can not only face it, but outmaneuver it.
M-.
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Producing How to Resist, however, is not free, and with fewer than 1% of readers supporting How to Resist with a paid subscription, we are still a long way from being fully funded.
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A Thousand Fires Everywhere
Anti-Trump Statue Mysteriously Appears on National Mall
A statue depicting a giant thumbs-up crushing the Statue of Liberty’s head has appeared on the National Mall, bearing the label “DICTATOR APPROVED” and featuring quotes about Trump from fellow autocrats. Installed with a permit, the statue critiques Trump’s admiration for authoritarian leaders and coincided with a military parade in D.C. Its bakers, who remain anonymous for now, seem to be drawing attention to growing concerns about democratic backsliding in the U.S.1 2
Democratic Officials Push Back as Arrests Become Symbol of Resistance
As Trump’s administration ramps up the use of federal law enforcement against political opponents, a growing number of Democratic officials are being detained or indicted. Rather than retreat, many are using these arrests to highlight concerns about authoritarian overreach and to galvanize resistance, turning handcuffs into a symbol of defiance.3
Singer Defies Ban, Performs National Anthem in Spanish to Honor Immigrant Roots
At a Dodgers game, singer Nezza defied instructions to perform the national anthem in English by singing it in Spanish, citing its historical legitimacy and her immigrant heritage. Her act, shared widely online, protests anti-immigrant sentiment and recent ICE raids, resonating with many in Los Angeles’ Latino community.4
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UN Condemns Trump’s Military Response to Protesters
UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk urged U.S. authorities to respect peaceful assembly and avoid using military force against protesters, following the deployment of U.S. Marines to Los Angeles during demonstrations against former President Trump’s actions. Turk emphasized that civilian authorities are capable of maintaining order and called for adherence to human rights standards in law enforcement.5
Dodgers Reject ICE, Donate $1 Million to Support Immigrant Families
In a direct response to Trump’s expanded ICE raids in Los Angeles, the LA Dodgers pledged $1 million to aid immigrant families and denied federal agents access to their stadium parking lot. The move follows public pressure and protests over the administration’s aggressive deportation tactics. Partnering with the City of Los Angeles and local organizations, the Dodgers aim to provide financial relief and essential services to those impacted. Their action marks a significant stand by a major sports franchise against federal immigration enforcement.6 7
Soccer Fans and Players Push Back Against Trump’s Anti-Immigrant Agenda
As Trump politicizes the World Cup and immigration enforcement intensifies, soccer communities across the U.S. are turning the sport into a platform for resistance. From silent protests and anti-ICE banners at MLS games to drag performances and pro-immigrant messages at NWSL events, fans and players are rejecting xenophobia, racism, and homophobia. Teams like Angel City FC and Portland Thorns are using their visibility to affirm inclusion and solidarity, showing that while Trump may try to co-opt the sport, its culture is rallying for justice.8
Georgetown Students and Drag Artists Resist Trump’s Kennedy Center Censorship
Georgetown University students and local drag performers are protesting President Trump’s changes at the Kennedy Center, which include banning drag shows and canceling Pride events. These actions, part of a broader rollback of diversity initiatives, have sparked organized resistance from LGBTQ+ communities who view performance art as a vital form of expression and identity. Students and artists are using their platforms to affirm queer visibility and challenge the exclusionary policies through creative, nonviolent resistance.9
“Definitely for the LGBTQ community, but for so many marginalized communities – the arts have been a way of finding yourself.” — Stacie Brensilver Berman, Clinical Assistant Professor at New York University
National Queer Theater Defies Defunding, Fights Back Against Trump
After losing a federal grant due to Trump-era restrictions on “gender ideology,” the National Queer Theater (NQT) refused to back down. Instead, they crowdfunded and secured foundation support to fully stage their Criminal Queerness Festival, showcasing plays by queer artists from countries where LGBTQ+ identities are criminalized. NQT also joined an ACLU lawsuit challenging the funding restrictions and continues to use theater as a tool for resistance, solidarity, and survival in the face of rising authoritarianism.10
Albuquerque Protesters Demand End to ICE Amid Trump Immigration Crackdown
Hundreds gathered in downtown Albuquerque to protest Trump’s immigration policies and call for the abolition of ICE. The peaceful demonstration, part of a national wave of resistance, featured community speakers, music, and a march to the federal courthouse. Protesters emphasized solidarity with immigrant families and condemned the fear caused by aggressive federal enforcement, vowing continued support and action.11
Black Churches Lead Boycotts to Defend DEI Against Trump Rollbacks
Black church leaders across the U.S. are organizing boycotts and public pressure campaigns to counter President Trump’s rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Led by pastors like Jamal Bryant and supported by figures such as Rev. Al Sharpton, these efforts target corporations like Target and Dollar General that have scaled back DEI commitments. With support from thousands of churches and hundreds of thousands of individuals, the movement aims to hold companies accountable and defend civil rights gains, even as Trump’s policies threaten to make anti-DEI sentiment federal law.12
Clergy Presence at San Diego Immigration Court Prevents ICE Arrests
On World Refugee Day, a delegation of clergy led by Bishop-elect Michael Pham visited the San Diego immigration court, prompting ICE agents to vacate the area and resulting in no detentions, which, as we know, is an unusual outcome. Advocates and clergy, including Jesuit and Episcopal leaders, credited their presence with protecting immigrants who would otherwise have faced arrest. The visit, inspired by Pham’s own refugee experience, is part of a growing movement to accompany and defend immigrants facing Trump-era enforcement tactics.13
Nashville Protesters Oppose Trump’s Threats of War with Iran
As former President Trump considers military action against Iran, activists in Nashville held an emergency protest at Centennial Park to oppose potential U.S. involvement. Organized by the Party for Socialism and Liberation, demonstrators warned that such a move would endanger lives and escalate global conflict. Citing misinformation about Iran’s nuclear capabilities and the human cost of past wars, protesters urged the public to resist another interventionist war in the Middle East.14
Grand Rapids Protesters Oppose U.S. Military Involvement in Iran Conflict
Amid escalating violence between Israel and Iran, activists in Grand Rapids held a “No War on Iran” rally to oppose U.S. military involvement. Organized by Palestine Solidarity Grand Rapids and the Antiwar Action Network, the protest condemned Israeli airstrikes and Trump’s threats of intervention. Demonstrators emphasized the human cost of war and warned against further U.S. escalation, while Trump signaled possible military action and issued provocative statements online. Despite differing views among counter-protesters, both sides expressed concern over deepening conflict in the region.15
Protesters Rally in LA as Marines Deployed Amid Iran Tensions
As tensions rise between Iran and Israel, U.S. Marines were stationed outside the Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles during a “No War on Iran” protest. Demonstrators gathered to oppose potential U.S. military involvement, highlighting growing public resistance to further escalation in the Middle East.16
New Yorkers Rally Against U.S. and Israeli Military Escalation in Iran
Hundreds gathered at the New York Public Library to protest Israeli airstrikes on Iran and potential U.S. involvement, as casualties from the conflict continue to rise. Organized under the banner “No War on Iran,” demonstrators condemned Western complicity and called for an end to military escalation. Iranian-Americans and anti-war activists voiced concern over Trump’s threats of intervention, while placards demanded peace, accountability, and a shift from endless wars to meeting people’s needs.17
Fighting Back in the Courts
Mahmoud Khalil Freed After 100+ Days in Detention
Mahmoud Khalil, a Columbia graduate and legal U.S. resident, was released on bail after over three months in ICE detention, which his lawyers argued was retaliation for his pro-Palestinian activism. Greeted by supporters and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez at Newark Airport, Khalil vowed to continue his advocacy. A federal judge found credible evidence of political retaliation, though the Trump administration is appealing the decision as it continues efforts to deport him.18 19 20
Anti-Violence Groups Sue Trump over Anti-Diversity Grant Rules
Seventeen domestic violence and sexual assault organizations, represented by the National Women’s Law Center, are suing the Trump administration over new Justice Department grant restrictions that ban support for “gender ideology” and undocumented survivors. The lawsuit argues these conditions violate the Violence Against Women Act and force groups to choose between critical funding and their core values. Rather than comply, the organizations are challenging the rules in court to continue serving vulnerable communities without censorship.21
American Bar Association Sues Trump Administration Over Sanctions Targeting Law Firms
The American Bar Association has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, challenging executive orders that sanction law firms representing clients opposing the president. The ABA argues these actions threaten legal independence and chill the profession, especially after some firms faced penalties or were pressured into pro bono deals. With several court rulings already striking down similar orders, the ABA seeks broader protections for its members and a reaffirmation of the rule of law.22
“We’ve got a responsibility as the voice of the legal profession to make sure we have a legal system that’s fair and impartial and not under the control of any administration,” William R. Bay, President of the American Bar Association
Cities Sue Trump Administration Over Withheld Anti-Terror Funds
Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, Denver, and Boston are suing the Trump administration for freezing congressionally approved anti-terrorism funds under the Securing the Cities program. The cities argue the Department of Homeland Security has illegally withheld reimbursements and blocked 2025 funding, jeopardizing public safety ahead of major events like the Super Bowl and World Cup. Local leaders say the cuts defy bipartisan support and threaten essential security measures, prompting legal action to restore the critical funding.23
Support How to Resist
As a librarian writing in the service of democracy, I’m determined to keep How to Resist free to read and publicly available for everyone.
Producing How to Resist, however, is not free, and with fewer than 1% of readers supporting How to Resist with a paid subscription, we are still a long way from being fully funded.
If this work matters to you and you’re able to support it, please consider a paid subscription and help keep How to Resist going for as long as it’s needed.
Prefer a one-time contribution? You can donate at ko-fi.com/howtoresist
So appreciate that you frame resistance as “nonviolence, mutual aid, and community building!” Saw a beautiful example of community building in Providence RI today - random pedestrians strolling across a bridge stopping to participate in a dance lesson, pairing with others they just met to learn to jitterbug!
The spirit of this week’s roundup hit like a tuning fork to the soul. Culture isn’t a side dish in the resistance—it’s the plate. From Nezza singing in Spanish to clergy dissolving ICE’s grip just by showing up, every act reclaims our humanity in spaces designed to erase it. This isn’t just protest; it’s liturgy. May every anthem sung off-script and every drag show held in defiance remind us: liberation is always louder than law and far more imaginative than empire. Keep the fire lit.