The largest US labor unions are rallying behind the No Kings protests against Trump, emphasizing the importance of a voice for freedom. James Phipps, a 75-year-old survivor of colon cancer, embodies this sentiment. Despite recent surgery, he's determined to join the Chicago demonstration, driven by a lifelong commitment to activism. Phipps, a former civil rights activist and Mississippi Freedom Labor Union member, fought for sharecroppers' rights, witnessing the harsh realities of low wages and inadequate medical care. He now works in administrative support in Cook County, grateful for health insurance coverage. The federal government shutdown, triggered by Medicaid cuts and insurance subsidy expiration, exacerbates his concerns. Phipps, an SEIU Local 73 member, fears the Trump administration's aggressive Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids, which he compares to the discriminatory laws of his youth. He emphasizes the need for a voice to combat these injustices. The No Kings protests, organized by major labor unions, aim to address power imbalances and express frustration over rising prices and Trump's administration's failures. Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers, highlights the power of a voice in both work and democracy. She refutes the claim that protests are 'hate America' rallies, emphasizing the love for America and the desire for equality. Jaime Contreras, SEIU 32 BJ's executive vice-president, underscores the threat of politicians shutting down the government for corporate interests. The protests, he asserts, are a peaceful response to these issues, advocating for the people's rights and against the notion of 'kings' ruling in a democracy.
