The right to peacefully protest is a cornerstone of American democracy. It is protected by the Constitution. It is not granted by any president and it cannot be taken away with threats of violence.

President Trump’s warning to unleash force against Americans protesting the June 14 military parade is outrageous and authoritarian.

 Telling people they will be "hit harder than they’ve ever been hit" for speaking out is not leadership. It is tyranny.

This is not what freedom looks like. This is fear used as a weapon. This is the language of dictators, not a president who serves the people.

We will not be intimidated into silence. Peaceful protest is not hate. Dissent is not violence. No one in this country should be punished for standing up for what they believe in.

We demand:

• A public retraction of the threat to protesters
• A commitment to protect First Amendment rights at all demonstrations
• An investigation into the use of force at past and future protests

Speak out now. Defend the rights that define us as Americans. Before they are taken away.

Photo: Kevin Dietsch / Getty Images