CHICAGO – Protesters in Chicago broke through a security fence outside the United Center on Monday as thousands inside prepared for the first night of the Democratic National Convention.
City officials and federal law enforcement officials have spent the last year developing a comprehensive security plan for the duration of the DNC, but one of the biggest challenges is likely to be the tens of thousands of protesters gathering in downtown Chicago, Union Park and other areas near the United Center.
Protesters break through security area in front of the United Center
On the first day of the Democratic National Convention, people broke through the security fence in front of the United Center.
One of the largest demonstrations on Monday was the Coalition to March on the DNC, which began with a rally in Union Park at noon and left around 3 p.m. The coalition, made up of more than 200 organizations, includes the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, the US Palestinian Community Network and the Arab American Action Network.
The coalition demands:
- USA ends aid to Israel
- Joint control of the police
- Immigrant rights and legalization for all
- Defending LGBTQIA+ and reproductive rights
- Money for jobs, schools, health, housing and the environment – not for war
- The right to organize unions and to strike
As the Democratic National Convention began on Monday, many businesses across Chicago took extra precautions to protect their buildings, fearing the protests could escalate. On the Near West Side, residents saw the United Center surrounded by fences, the streets lined with trucks and a heavy police presence.
Protesters break through fence outside Democratic Party Convention
A group of protesters broke through the security perimeter outside the Democratic Party Convention on Monday.
The convention, which will be held Monday through Thursday at the United Center and McCormick Place, is expected to attract around 50,000 attendees, including delegates, guests and 15,000 journalists. Prominent speakers include President Joe Biden, former President Barack Obama, former President Bill Clinton and Hillary Clinton, all of whom are expected to support Kamala Harris and her vice president.
DNC Related Links
