Warning: Global Tensions Could Hit Home at Tomorrow’s Protest

I’m usually all about civic engagement, but with everything shaking loose globally—and right here in Colorado—I wanted to share a careful word of caution before heading to the “No Kings” protest tomorrow.

What’s Behind the Headlines

• Israel’s strikes on Iran: Just yesterday morning (June 13, 2025), Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a massive air and ground assault on over 100 Iranian nuclear and military sites—including Natanz and key enrichment facilities. The operation killed at least three top military leaders like IRGC commander Hossein Salami, the IRGC air‑force chief Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the Iranian Armed Forces chief Mohammad Bagheri, and multiple nuclear scientists (including Fereydoon Abbasi–Davani). Iran responded by firing over 100 drones and missiles at Israel  .

• Iran’s fiery rhetoric: Following the strikes, chants of “Death to America” have reportedly intensified in Iranian circles, underscoring how volatile emotions are right now .

• U.S. protests in Colorado: Here in Colorado, “No Kings” rallies—aimed at rejecting authoritarianism and taking place around Flag Day—aren’t a single event. Organized across dozens of towns tomorrow, including Parker and likely Boulder  .

• Recent violence in Boulder: About two weeks ago, someone threw Molotov cocktails at a pro‑Israel demonstration in Boulder, injuring 12 people. The suspect was charged with a federal hate crime and reportedly said he “wanted to kill all Zionist people”  .

Why Tomorrow’s Could Be Risky

1. Heightened tensions — With major U.S. protests underway and global events fueling anger here at home, protests that may have started peacefully could easily be hijacked by someone seeking to commit violence.

2. Historical precedent — The Boulder incident is a real warning shot. When global anger boils over locally, the result can be sudden, dangerous escalation.

3. Large crowds + emotion = unpredictability — Protests like the “No Kings” events draw big crowds, and when chanting gets aggressive, it’s a fertile environment for trouble.

What You Can Do to Stay Safe

• Buddy system: Attend with friends or family—not solo.

• Plan your route: Know nearby exits, parking, protest patterns.

• Stay alert: Scan for early signs of discontent—heated shouting, aggressive body language, stray objects.

• Have a safe exit: Carry minimal valuables and always keep a clear path to leave.

• Stay semi-public: Let someone outside the protest know where you’ll be and check in at a set time.

Nobody Wants a Police State—But Violence Changes the Game

I’m all for exercising our rights to speak out. But the truth is, calmer, more effective civic engagement happens when we can stay safe and focused. No doubt tomorrow’s actions could send an important message—just make sure they don’t get hijacked by someone with destructive intentions.

In short: Please go if you feel compelled—but please plan, stay aware, and stay safe. Our voices matter. Our lives matter more.