As President Trump observed a military parade, protests were set to unfold across the nation, labeled as "No King" demonstrations. Organizers described these events as a response to what they view as the increasing authoritarian behavior of the Trump administration. These protests gained momentum following recent federal immigration raids that stirred public outrage.
In Chicago, where WBEZ reporter Sarah Karp provided updates, the protests had been building throughout the week. The city’s atmosphere shifted after clashes erupted in Los Angeles, prompting the National Guard’s involvement. Many residents felt uneasy as immigration agents began appearing at court hearings and during routine check-ins. The largest protest so far took place on Tuesday night, attracting over a thousand participants.
Today’s "No King" rally in Chicago is distinct from previous gatherings. It has been in the works for weeks and aims to be a family-friendly event. Various organizations, including the Chicago Teachers Union and the ACLU, are involved, with Indivisible being a key organizer. Kathy Tholin from Indivisible emphasized that the rally sends a clear message: authoritarianism will not be accepted.
The protests come amid President Trump’s ongoing criticism of Chicago’s status as a sanctuary city, where local police do not assist federal immigration agents. Illinois Governor JB Pritzker recently defended this status before Congress. Chicago’s progressive Mayor Brandon Johnson supports the protesters, urging the community to resist actions targeting vulnerable groups. He expressed confidence that the event would remain peaceful, highlighting the city’s experience with large demonstrations.
In preparation for potential federal actions similar to those seen in Los Angeles, Chicago officials have been informed by immigration agents about possible deployments to major cities, including Chicago. They were warned that tactical teams or armored vehicles might be present, but there has been no confirmation of any military presence so far.
As the day unfolds, the city braces for what many hope will be a peaceful expression of dissent against policies perceived as harmful to democracy and the rights of its residents.