Thousands of demonstrators gathered at Union Park in Chicago ahead of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) protests, organized by the Coalition to March on the DNC 2024. The central message of the protest is to call for an end to aid to Israel and to stop what they describe as genocide in the Gaza war. Police presence has been comparably light, and organizers have stressed a peaceful demonstration.
No violence has been reported at the protests, as police and tow truck operators have been deterring misbehavior. Organizers have emphasized the need for Palestinian territory to be liberated from Israeli control. The protest is expected to march near the United Center, where the DNC is being held.
Key speakers during the DNC, including Hillary Clinton and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, will address the pro-Palestinian protesters outside the convention. Former Biden advisers have revealed survey data showing a less rosy picture for the Harris-Walz campaign than public polling suggests.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker confirmed that 250 members of the state’s national guard have been deployed to Chicago for the convention, acting as military police. Demonstrations are expected to continue throughout the week, with a focus on US support for Israel amid ongoing conflicts in Gaza.
Overall, tens of thousands of protesters are anticipated to gather outside the DNC, showcasing a mix of messages on various issues, including reproductive rights and the Israel-Hamas war. The event is shaping up to be a vibrant and contentious start to the DNC in Chicago.
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