Anti-Israel organizers in Chicago are gearing up for a massive march on the Democratic National Convention, with expectations of tens of thousands of participants taking to the streets to demand an end to all forms of support for Israel. The organizers, led by Hatem Abudayyeh, spokesperson for the March on the DNC movement, have rallied more than 270 organizations to support their cause.
Abudayyeh emphasized that their message is clear – they want to stop what they call “genocide,” cut off U.S. aid to Israel, and advocate for a free Palestine. The coalition is united in their belief that all American support for Israel, including political, diplomatic, and military assistance, should be terminated immediately.
Despite facing challenges from the city, the organizers are pushing for an expanded venue and route for their protest, as well as the use of canopies to shield medical workers supporting the march. They are adamant that any violence that may occur during the protests will not be instigated by the protesters, but rather by law enforcement.
One of the concerns raised by the organizers is that their march will not be visible to DNC attendees, as their speaking program is scheduled to take place at Union Park, away from the convention center. In addition to their demands related to Israel, the organizers are also calling for an end to the war in Ukraine and are critical of military aid to various countries.
The march organizers have targeted not only President Biden and Vice President Harris, but also Chicago-area Democrats who have been labeled as “progressives except for Palestine.” They have engaged in protests and call campaigns against politicians like Jan Schakowsky, Katie Porter, Debbie Dingell, and others.
In preparation for potential unrest, Chicago businesses have taken precautions such as boarding up windows and temporarily closing shop. Mayor Brandon Johnson has assured the public that the city is equipped to handle any clashes that may arise during the protests, emphasizing the importance of upholding democratic rights while maintaining peace and order.
As tensions rise and the march draws near, all eyes are on Chicago to see how the situation will unfold and whether the protesters’ demands will be heard and acknowledged. The city remains on high alert, hoping to avoid a repeat of past conflicts and emerge from the protests stronger and more united.
