Police and protesters gathered outside the Democratic National Convention on Chicago’s West Side during the event’s four-day run. Though the marches primarily focused on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, those who gathered included more than 270 organizations across the country fighting for the rights of immigrants, minorities, women, workers, LGBTQIA+, the environment and more.
“It’s been really great to see, you know, people of all different backgrounds, different ages,” said Nazek Sankari, co-chair of both the Coalition to March on the DNC and the U.S. Palestinian Community Network.
Chicago police Superintendent Larry Snelling praised demonstration organizers’ efforts to curb potential bad actors and for keeping in contact with police. “It shows that when you have some type of contact and collaboration with those who are organizing, that you can have a peaceful First Amendment gathering,” Snelling said.
Photojournalist Armando L. Sanchez recorded the protests on film for the Chicago Tribune.
Officers attempt to put a fence together after it was crossed by activists in park #578 near the United Center during the first day of the Democratic National Convention Monday Aug. 19, 2024 in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Activists march near the United Center during the first day of the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Activists embrace at park #578 near the United Center after marching during the first day of the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Police clear out park #578 after protesters jumped a fence near the United Center during the first day of the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 19, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)A person carries shopping bags near a barricaded United Center during the second day of the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 20, 2024, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Activists argue with officers while marching on North Michigan Avenue to protest the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 18, 2024 in Chicago. The protest was organized by CODEPINK, a women-led anti-war nonprofit that seeks to redirect tax dollars into healthcare, education and green jobs. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)Activists march on North Michigan Avenue before the first day of the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 18, 2024, in Chicago. The protest was organized by CODEPINK. (Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune)
