This week, Chicago is bracing for the arrival of an estimated 100,000 activists from far-left groups who are opposed to Israel's policies. These protests are set to coincide with the Democratic National Convention taking place at the McCormick Place Convention Center. Organizers have announced at least seven major rallies and marches throughout the city, with additional gatherings likely even without official permits from the city. The demonstrators represent a variety of causes, including support for Hamas and calls to cease U.S. aid to Israel.
The convention is scheduled from Monday to Thursday, but protest activities are starting as early as Sunday with a march organized by Bodies Outside of Unjust Laws, a group advocating for pro-abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Hatem Abudayyeh, leading the U.S. Palestinian Community Network, has expressed a firm stance against the Democratic Party leadership. In comments to The Washington Post, Abudayyeh criticized Vice President Harris’s ascension to the presidential nominee position and did not hold back on his critique of the party's support for Israel, referring to Harris with derogatory nicknames reflecting his disapproval.
These events mark a significant moment of political activism in Chicago, highlighting deep divisions over U.S. foreign policy and social issues within parts of the left-wing activist community.
The convention is scheduled from Monday to Thursday, but protest activities are starting as early as Sunday with a march organized by Bodies Outside of Unjust Laws, a group advocating for pro-abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. Hatem Abudayyeh, leading the U.S. Palestinian Community Network, has expressed a firm stance against the Democratic Party leadership. In comments to The Washington Post, Abudayyeh criticized Vice President Harris’s ascension to the presidential nominee position and did not hold back on his critique of the party's support for Israel, referring to Harris with derogatory nicknames reflecting his disapproval.
These events mark a significant moment of political activism in Chicago, highlighting deep divisions over U.S. foreign policy and social issues within parts of the left-wing activist community.
