Protests in Chicago set to spoil Kamala Harris' campaign fanfare

CHICAGO: Crowds of activists are set to gather in Chicago for protests outside the Democratic National Convention (DNC) this week, hoping to call attention to issues like economic injustice, reproductive rights and the war in Gaza.

While Vice President Kamala Harris has galvanised the party as she gears up to accept the Democratic nomination, activists say their plans to demonstrate haven't changed. They're ready to amplify their message before the nation's top Democratic leaders.

Their issues cover climate change, abortion rights and racial equality, to name a few, but many activists agree an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war is the overarching message of the demonstrations. They've likened it to the Vietnam War of their generation. Chicago has one of the largest Palestinian communities in the nation and buses are bringing activists here from all over the country. Organisers estimate turnout for the march and rally on Monday, the first day of the convention, to be at least 20,000 people.


"We have to play our part in the belly of the beast to stop the genocide, to end U.S. aid to Israel and stand with Palestine," said Hatem Abudayyeh, a spokesperson for the Coalition to March on the DNC.

The coalition is made up of hundreds of organizations, including students. Activists say they learned lessons from last month's Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. They expect bigger crowds and more robust demonstrations through the week.

The first protest Sunday night brought together those seeking abortion and LGBTQ+ rights and an end to the Gaza war. The march lasted for hours and saw no major conflicts. Chicago police said two people were arrested on misdemeanor charges of resisting police and damaging property.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who was under consideration as Harris' running mate, said peaceful protests were welcome.