Thousands Rally in Grant Park as No Kings Protest Opposes Trump and ICE Arrests in Chicago Live Updates
On a Saturday afternoon, tens of thousands of protesters gathered in Grant Park, Chicago, for a significant “No Kings” demonstration. This event was part of a nationwide movement against the policies of the Trump administration. Similar rallies were organized in various suburbs and cities across the country.
Mass Rally Against Trump Policies
The protest in Chicago began around noon at Butler Field, drawing participants from both the city and surrounding areas. Organizers emphasized the need to challenge the administration’s recent immigration actions, particularly the ICE arrests that have affected local communities.
Voices from the Crowd
- Allison Heverin, a passionately involved protester, stated, “We have to be out here to show the world this is not right.”
- Sally Schulze, representing Indivisible Chicago, highlighted, “Tens of thousands are gathering to support our neighbors and remind everyone we don’t have kings here.”
- Jeremiah Thiocary expressed concerns over safety, noting the proximity of recent ICE raids to his home.
The previous “No Kings” rally in June attracted substantial turnout, but organizers anticipated an even larger crowd for this demonstration given the ongoing issues with ICE enforcement.
Impact on Chicago
The peaceful march impacted traffic significantly throughout downtown Chicago. The Chicago Police Department deployed additional units to manage the crowd and ensure safety. Hundreds of officers escorted the protesters as they made their way past notable landmarks, including Trump Tower.
Broader Context of Protests
This event is part of a broader series of anti-Trump protests, addressing policies perceived as harmful, particularly in terms of immigration. The rally follows previous demonstrations that have faced opposition from federal agents, raising concerns among activists about law enforcement tactics.
Future Outlook
Organizers viewed the Chicago rally as a success and are already discussing plans for future demonstrations. Over 2,000 protests were reported nationwide, with some planned in Canada and Mexico, emphasizing the widespread nature of this movement. Meanwhile, a faction of Trump supporters labeled the protest a “hate America rally,” while demonstrators maintained their stance on peaceful activism.
In addition to Grant Park, protests occurred in several suburbs including Naperville, Elmhurst, and Bolingbrook, reflecting the community’s collective demand for change in immigration policies and a more inclusive approach to governance.
