Protesters Breach Police Fence Near Democratic National Convention Site

Photo : AP

Pro-Palestinian supporters gathered in Union Park for a pre-march rally, where independent presidential candidate Cornel West addressed the crowd, highlighting the significance of morality and spirituality in the context of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Thousands of demonstrators later assembled near the United Center in Chicago, the venue for the Democratic National Convention, to protest against the war in Gaza. The demonstration saw a few dozen protesters break away from the main group, tearing down parts of the security fence surrounding the convention site. Some of these protesters carried the fence pieces to a nearby park.

Chants of "End the occupation now" and "The whole world is watching!" echoed through the streets as the march progressed. This event coincided with President Joe Biden’s visit to the United Center, who has faced criticism from pro-Palestinian groups for his stance on the conflict.

A substantial police presence was evident, including Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, who accompanied officers ahead of the protesters. Mayor Brandon Johnson assured that authorities were well-prepared for the demonstration.

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Despite organizers’ hopes for a larger turnout, the march drew only a few thousand protesters. The Chicago area, known for its large Palestinian community, saw activists from across the country arriving by bus. During the rally, around 40 pro-Israel supporters paraded around Union Park with Israeli flags, accompanied by police officers, though no physical confrontations were reported.

In a related development, several individuals were detained after breaching a security barrier near the United Center. Chicago police confirmed the incident but declined to provide further details, with Superintendent Snelling indicating that the effectiveness of the current fencing was under review.

Protesters’ grievances extended beyond the Gaza conflict, encompassing issues such as climate change, abortion rights, and racial equality. In anticipation of potential disturbances, some businesses boarded up their windows, and county courts prepared for possible mass arrests. Chicago police had trained officers in constitutional policing and de-escalation techniques to manage the situation.

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