Thousands of demonstrators flooded Embarcadero Plaza Saturday in one of the Bay Area’s largest showings for the nationwide “No Kings Protests” movement against Donald Trump, and Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr was among those marching.
After Monday’s practice, Kerr described the rally as “beautiful,” saying the crowd was peaceful, impassioned and demonstrative of democratic values.
“Everyone I saw, 100 % loves their country, and as is our country’s custom, if you don’t agree with what your government is doing, you peacefully protest. That’s how it should be,” Kerr told reporters.
National ‘No Kings’ Movement Highlights Bay Area Turnout
The “No Kings” protests, held in more than 2,600 locations nationwide Saturday, were broadly aimed at challenging perceived authoritarianism and unchecked executive power under the Trump administration.
In San Francisco alone, estimates suggest tens of thousands joined the demonstration, stretching from Embarcadero Plaza through Market Street to Civic Center Plaza, according to The San Francisco Chronicle.
The event featured music, banners, and an overall festive yet determined atmosphere.
Kerr’s presence underscored the event’s broad appeal: from grassroots organizers and families to high-profile public figures.
“It was a love fest — music playing, everyone marching peacefully,” Kerr added.
Steve Kerr’s Activism Echoes Demonstration’s Theme
Kerr has a history of activism that aligns with the themes of Saturday’s march. Last spring, he wore a Harvard University shirt after a play-in win in solidarity with the Ivy League school’s fight for academic freedom under scrutiny from the current administration.
“I believe in academic freedom… they should not be shaken down and told what to teach or what to say by our government,” Kerr said at the time. “That’s the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard, but it’s kind of par for the course right now.”
He also publicly backed Kamala Harris during her presidential campaign, appearing on stage at the Democratic National Committee event in 2024 and declaring, “As an American citizen, not to speak up in an election of this magnitude would’ve been irresponsible.”
Kerr: Protesters Showcased ‘We the People’ at Work
Reflecting on the rally, Kerr framed the turnout as a display of grassroots democracy in action.
“And I think it’s been proven that there’s a lot of sway out there right now, whether it’s from the media or political pressure,” he said. “So we have to be the ones who can push things forward… The way to do that is to peacefully protest and make your voice heard. That’s what I saw [Saturday].”
The message resonated with the “No Kings” slogan — a clear rejection of concentration of power and a reaffirmation of citizen-driven democracy. Analysts noted Saturday’s demonstrations may be among the largest in U.S. history.
Warriors Coach Delivers Message Beyond Basketball
For Kerr, the activism comes as the NBA season approaches, blending sports leadership with civic responsibility. His participation in the march may also amplify attention on how athletes and coaches engage in political movements.
“If you don’t agree with what your government is doing… you peacefully protest,” Kerr said. “We are, you know, the democracy — we the people.”
In doing so, Kerr positioned himself and his franchise not just on the court, but in the national conversation — aligning the Warriors with broader social and political movements at a time when athletes’ voices continue to carry significant influence.
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