Chicago Fallout From DNC – Unusual Preparations Enough?

chicago prepares for DNC

Law enforcement agencies cleared jail space, and businesses boarded up their windows as Chicago braced for mass protests during the Democratic National Convention (DNC).

At a Glance

  • Chicago prepared for mass arrests and protests ahead of the DNC which started on August 19.
  • Local businesses boarded up establishments to prevent potential destruction.
  • The “Coalition to March on the DNC” includes about 200 anti-Israel groups that plan to protest.
  • Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker has 150 Illinois National Guard members on standby.
  • The city will host around 50,000 attendees during the convention.

Law Enforcement Steps Up Preparations

Chicago officials are leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for the Democratic National Convention, which began on August 19. To avoid a repeat of the chaos seen in previous protests, Cook County Circuit Court Chief Judge Timothy C. Evans announced preparations for mass arrests as early as July. “We have been meeting for weeks with more than 50 people from county, city, state, and federal agencies to prepare for the possibility of multiple arrests,” Evans said.

Meanwhile, jail space is being cleared to accommodate the influx of potential detainees, and the court system will remain open from 8 a.m. to midnight to expedite processing.

Local businesses are taking matters into their own hands. Owners, wary from past experiences, are boarding up shops to protect against feared looting and vandalism. Once again, it seems the city’s trust in its governance to protect law-abiding citizens and their properties falls short. As Scott Shapiro, owner of a menswear store, noted, “We know from past experiences something could ensue so we want to be proactive and get ahead of it.”

Who’s Expected to Protest?

Among the groups lining up to express their discontent is the “Coalition to March on the DNC,” which includes about 200 anti-Israel groups. They have already received permits for sound systems and portable toilets, ensuring their prolonged presence. While some officials believe these measures strike a balance between protester rights and public safety, one can’t help but question their priorities.

Pro-Israel groups also plan to make their voices heard. Initially denied permits to protest, they were later granted a brief period at the speaker’s platform. In one more twist of irony, Chicago’s large Palestinian community will join forces with activists from across the country, showing solidarity against U.S. aid to Israel.

A Divided Mandate

While Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson has emphasized that protesters’ First Amendment rights will be protected, the city’s track record leaves doubt. During past protests, business owners like Vicki Fichter of Chicago Board-Up Services observed, “within the past two weeks, everyone is getting a little nervous… Now everyone is starting to board up.” It’s clear that despite assurances, the realities on the ground tell a different story.

Adding another layer to this complex situation, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has 150 Illinois National Guard members on standby. More than 300 police officers from Illinois and Milwaukee have been deputized to assist with security. Superintendent Larry Snelling highlighted officer safety and readiness, emphasizing the importance of these measures.

Convention Highlights

The Democratic National Convention, designated a “national security event” by the Secret Service, will feature high-profile speakers including President Biden, former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, and Hillary Clinton, who are expected to endorse Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. With more than half a dozen sanctioned demonstrations during a convention anticipating 50,000 attendees, Chicago’s preparations illustrate a city caught between upholding law and preserving rights.

The FBI stated there are no specific threats related to the DNC, but with the city’s large Palestinian community and activists gathering from across the country, the atmosphere is tense. Chicago’s readiness, or lack thereof, will soon be put to the test. As we keep a watchful eye on the proceedings, one thing is clear: the city’s actions in the coming days will reflect its capabilities and priorities.

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