Tens of thousands of demonstrators united in downtown Chicago on Saturday afternoon, echoing their dissent against President Donald Trump through chants and signs as they participated in one of the largest protests in recent memory.
The protest was part of a nationwide “No Kings” movement, which organizers characterized as a “national mobilization to reject authoritarianism and stand united against fear.” Across the country, over 1,500 protests were held, all coordinated to coincide with President Trump’s 79th birthday and a military parade organized by his administration in Washington, D.C., costing an estimated $45 million.
Theresa and Robert Hoban, retired attorneys who divide their time between Chicago and Florida, were among the protesters gathered in Daley Plaza. “We are doing this for our grandchildren’s future,” Theresa Hoban stated, expressing their concern about the direction the country has taken under the current administration.
From early morning, protesters began to fill Daley Plaza, ready to take a stand against what they view as the administration’s failings. Many held signs that derided President Trump or advocated for values they believe are under threat. Messages included phrases such as “Fascism is bad,” “Rise up, fight back,” and “The wannabe king deserves a royal flush.”
The gathering in Chicago reflected a broader atmosphere of tension stemming from recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles. In response, President Trump deployed the California National Guard and Marines, despite opposition from Governor Gavin Newsom.
Mayor Brandon Johnson and other leaders voiced apprehension over the impact of Trump’s administration on Chicago. The city has already experienced significant ICE activity during the president’s second term, prompting calls for resistance. Johnson encouraged Chicagoans to unite against these looming threats.
Protesters prominently displayed their opposition to ICE and immigration policies, such as Marcos Sánchez, a 20-year-old Chicago native whose parents emigrated from Mexico. He wore a large city of Chicago flag and carried a sign that read: “Chicago serves it neat — no ICE.” Sánchez shared his feelings about the inhumanity of recent ICE raids, emphasizing that despite the law, everyone deserves equal treatment and rights.
Once the protest officially commenced just past noon, Daley Plaza was packed with demonstrators standing shoulder-to-shoulder, displaying their signs, including “Dump Trump,” “Say No To Kings,” and “No Kings in America since 1776.” Chants of “No Kings! No Kings! No Kings!” resonated throughout the Loop.
The spirit of communal protest was evident as Donald Nash, his wife, and their grandchildren attended to advocate for a better future. Colleen Nash emphasized the value of such moments, noting their significance in teaching younger generations that collective action is a powerful tool for change. Her father, Donald, expressed his desire for his descendants to enjoy the same democratic freedoms he had experienced.
The rally featured speeches from key figures, including a representative from Indivisible Chicago and U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García. García voiced his concerns regarding the current administration, asserting that it represents a hostile takeover of the government rather than true leadership.
As the march kicked off around 1:30 p.m., the group proceeded north on LaSalle Street and east on Wacker Drive. The sheer size of the crowd caused delays, with individuals at the back waiting over 20 minutes before they could join the procession. The demonstration stretched for blocks, filling both streets and sidewalks as they showcased their signs and unified voices.
Even hours after the protest began, many participants lingered at Daley Plaza, attempting to march through the Loop once again, but police were present to contain the crowd. The protesters insisted, “Let us through! Let us through!”
Chicago police Superintendent Larry Snelling maintained a visible presence during the largely peaceful demonstration, which saw only one arrest for allegedly striking a police officer. Despite some disruptions, including an individual setting a small American flag ablaze, the protest remained generally orderly.
Parallel protests were scheduled in various suburbs including Evanston, Geneva, Naperville, Highland Park, and Orland Park, as well as locations in Indiana, exhibiting a widespread discontent with the administration.
Sally Schulze, a spokesperson for Indivisible Chicago, articulated the motivation behind the protests. She emphasized the choice to actively resist the oppressive climate of the current administration instead of remaining inactive on social media.
As protesters marched past Trump Tower on the Chicago River, enthusiasm grew, with chants of “Power to the people, no one is illegal!” followed by “Say it loud, say it clear, immigrants are welcome here.” The crowd’s energy was palpable, with some participants expressing their disdain for the tower using gestures while chanting, “Hey, hey, ho, ho — Donald Trump has got to go.”
The route wound back toward Daley Plaza, where the march initially commenced, highlighting the collective resolve of the demonstrators. The event served as a testament to the power of community action against policies perceived as unjust, and as a clear message against the current administration as they gathered to make their voices heard.
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