Protests erupted across Chicago on Saturday as demonstrators gathered in response to the nationwide “No Kings” movement, coinciding with a military parade celebrating the U.S. Army’s 250th birthday and President Donald Trump’s birthday.
The organizers of the movement aim to stand for democracy while denouncing what they see as authoritarian actions by the Trump administration.
Chicago Police reported that one individual was arrested for allegedly hitting an officer during the protests, although further details have not been disclosed.
The day’s events began with protesters gathering at Daley Plaza by 10:30 a.m., where hundreds were already present and the atmosphere was peaceful, featuring music and family participation.
By 12:40 p.m., street closures were implemented around West Washington Street due to the size of the gathering.
At 1:30 p.m., thousands of individuals had filled Daley Plaza for the “No Kings” rally, with many attendees voicing their opposition to Trump’s policies.
Among the voices addressing the crowd was Ed Yohnka from the ACLU of Illinois, who stated, “While Donald Trump throws himself a birthday party, using our military as a prop, we the people gather here in Chicago to speak up for those who Trump is targeting. He is terrorizing our neighbors and our neighborhoods, in pursuit of his damaging deportation program.”
Family members of immigrants, fueled by anger, expressed their feelings through chants and steps as they marched towards Trump Tower, with some families bringing young children along.
“We want him to see what freedom looks like and what we should be fighting for,” remarked a father holding his son during the march.
Carrie Correa, one of the protesters, highlighted the importance of their presence: “We are being the voices for those who can’t come or are scared to come.”
The organizers from Indivisible noted that the protest remained mainly peaceful, a significant goal for the event, with fellow activists quickly booing any potential troublemakers.
Protesters are resolved to continue their efforts against the current political climate and to oppose what they perceive as an abuse of power from the White House, indicating their commitment to return in future protests.
Earlier in the day, multiple demonstrations were already underway in the suburbs, including a gathering in Joliet.
According to social media, State Sen. Rachel Ventura shared videos from the demonstration in Joliet, showcasing the voices of those participating.
Additionally, anti-ICE protesters gathered around 10:20 a.m. at Federal Plaza, voicing their opposition to ICE arrests of undocumented immigrants, and planned to join the larger event at Daley Plaza later.
The protests were not solely focused on Trump’s birthday, as participants also expressed solidarity against the escalating violence between Israel and Iran, emphasizing the need for comprehensive discussions on current global issues.
Before the main events kicked off, Illinois Democratic elected officials expressed their disapproval of President Trump’s planned military parade, with Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton stating, “Today, Donald Trump is using tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to throw himself a birthday party fit for a king, or a dictator.”
She criticized Trump for allegedly distracting the public from pressing issues, such as healthcare cuts and federal troop deployments.
Various protests had occurred in the days leading up to the “No Kings” event, including an anti-ICE demonstration that led to brief clashes between protesters and police, resulting in multiple arrests.
In stark contrast, the protest on Thursday remained peaceful despite obstructing major thoroughfares in downtown Chicago.
Organizers of the “No Kings” movement, which defines itself under the slogan “50501 Movement”—representing 50 states, 50 protests—sealed their commitment to pushing back against authoritarianism and the militarization of democracy.
Wednesday’s protests reflected a significant recent trend against Trump and his administration’s policies, prompting local community members from various suburbs to mobilize and take part in Saturday’s collective action.
Overall, demonstrators in Chicago and across the nation took to the streets on Saturday, rallying to reject what they perceive as an extremist political landscape under Trump’s presidency, embodying a renewed spirit of activism in the fight for foundational democratic principles.
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