Thousands Prepare for Urgent ‘No Kings’ Protests in Chicago

URGENT UPDATE: Thousands of Chicagoans are set to converge on Grant Park this Saturday, July 15, 2023, at noon for a massive protest against the Trump administration’s policies, particularly its aggressive deportation campaign. This rally is part of a “nationwide day of defiance” that will see demonstrators rallying in cities across the nation, from New York City to San Francisco, with over 2,000 locations participating.

The downtown event, dubbed the “Hands Off Chicago” rally, is organized by a coalition of local advocacy groups, including Indivisible Chicago and the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois. Organizers aim to push back against what they describe as the “immoral and illegal acts” of the Trump administration. “The eyes of our nation are on Chicago as we respond to these federal attacks,” said Kathy Tholin, Chair of Indivisible Chicago. She urged those who may not feel directly targeted to join in solidarity with the city’s immigrant communities.

As the rally approaches, Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise, have condemned the protests, labeling them a “Hate America Rally.” In response, Republican governors in Texas and Virginia have pledged to deploy the National Guard to manage potential violence or property damage during the protests.

Chicago organizers emphasize their commitment to nonviolent action, urging participants to remain calm and de-escalate any potential confrontations. Madeline Townsend, a board member of the National Lawyers Guild of Chicago, has stated that they do not anticipate an aggressive response from local police or federal agencies. Legal observers will be present to monitor the situation and provide assistance if needed.

Saturday’s rally marks a significant moment, following a previous “No Kings” protest in June that drew around 15,000 attendees in downtown Chicago and even larger crowds in the suburbs. That event aimed to counter a military parade in Washington, D.C., commemorating the Army’s 250th anniversary and coinciding with Trump’s 79th birthday.

This upcoming protest also follows smaller demonstrations at the ICE facility in Broadview and various sites of ICE activities, some of which met with a heavy-handed response from federal agents. Protesters faced tear gas and crowd control tactics during these earlier events.

The urgency of this protest is underscored by the broader implications of the Trump administration’s policies on immigrant communities and civil rights. Organizers are calling for all who support these vulnerable populations to join together in this critical moment of resistance.

As the rally approaches, participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their rights and legal protections, ensuring a safe and peaceful demonstration. The situation is developing rapidly, and all eyes will be on Chicago this Saturday as demonstrators make their voices heard.