Thousands to Protest Trump Policies in Chicago This Saturday

URGENT UPDATE: Thousands of Chicago residents are set to converge on Grant Park this Saturday for a major protest against the Trump administration’s controversial policies, particularly its aggressive deportation campaign. The rally is part of a larger nationwide day of defiance taking place in over 2,000 locations across the United States, including New York City, Washington, D.C., Atlanta, and San Francisco.

The main event, titled the “Hands Off Chicago” rally, is scheduled to kick off at noon and is organized by a coalition of advocacy groups, notably Indivisible Chicago and the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois. Organizers aim to push back against what they describe as “immoral and illegal acts” perpetrated by the Trump administration.

Kathy Tholin, Chair of Indivisible Chicago, stated, “We have the opportunity to specifically speak out against the invasion of Chicago, in addition to ways the administration is attacking our workers, our democracy, and our country.” She emphasized the importance of solidarity, urging those who may not feel directly targeted by federal agents to join in support of immigrant communities and vulnerable populations.

The protest has drawn the attention of Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who criticized the gathering as a “Hate America Rally.” Meanwhile, Republican governors from Texas and Virginia have indicated they are prepared to deploy the National Guard in response to any potential unrest during the protests.

Chicago organizers are committed to nonviolent action, emphasizing the need for de-escalation amid concerns of potential confrontations. Madeline Townsend, a board member of the National Lawyers Guild of Chicago, expressed confidence that law enforcement would not respond aggressively to the rally. Legal observers will be present to monitor the situation and ensure participants’ rights are protected.

Participants are encouraged to familiarize themselves with their legal rights ahead of the event, especially in light of earlier protests at local ICE facilities, which faced harsh responses from federal agents, including the use of tear gas.

This rally follows a similar protest four months ago that drew approximately 15,000 attendees in downtown Chicago and surrounding suburbs. The June demonstration was aimed at countering a military parade in Washington, D.C. to celebrate the Army’s 250th anniversary and President Trump’s 79th birthday.

As the protest approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and urgency. The eyes of the nation are on Chicago, as residents prepare to make their voices heard against federal actions that they deem harmful to their communities.

Stay tuned for live updates as the situation develops throughout the day.