Chicago businesses board up ahead of potentially violent DNC protesters

Businesses in downtown Chicago, such as The Garland Building and Staples, boarded up in preparation for the 2024 Democratic National Convention.

Newsweek reached out to Chicago Board Up Services and The Garland Building to determine whether the boarding up of businesses is purely precautionary or if there is a concern about potential violent protests. They have not yet responded.

Newsweek also contacted the Staples on North Wabash Avenue, however, they were not able to make a comment.

Activists began assembling in Chicago for protests outside the Democratic National Convention, aiming to spotlight issues like economic injustice, reproductive rights, and the war in Gaza. Many agree that advocating for an immediate cease-fire in the Israel-Hamas war is the primary focus of the demonstrations. They compare it to the Vietnam War of their generation.

The Chicago area hosts one of the largest Palestinian communities in the country, and activists are arriving from across the nation by bus. Organizers expects Monday’s march and rally, coinciding with the convention’s opening day, will attract at least 20,000 participants.

Protesters say their plans remain unchanged despite President Joe Biden’s exit from the race and the party’s swift support for Vice President Kamala Harris, who will formally accept the Democratic nomination this week. Activists are prepared to amplify their progressive message to the nation’s top Democratic leaders.

Mayor Brandon Johnson said the city has been working with public safety agencies for several months to prepare for the protests.

“The city of Chicago is really good at things like this,” he said at a news conference Monday morning. “We are ready.”

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling said during the conference public safety is the top priority, and they are committed to ensuring a safe and successful national convention. The city of Chicago plans to deploy officers and safety resources across every neighborhood, not just around the DNC venue location.

“Our officers have been training for over a year, the Chicago Police Department along with everyone working with us – our federal, state, local partners and county – we’re all working in collaboration to make sure the city is safe and secure,” Snelling said.

Regarding the protesters, Snelling said the police department will protect and allow them to exercise their First Amendment rights. However, authorities are closely monitoring the designated location and coordinating with federal partners to prevent any significant disturbances in the area.

“The Chicago Police Department is here to protect everyone in this city,” Snelling said. “We will protect people’s rights, their First Amendment rights, their right to expression. What we will not tolerate is intimidation or violence. We want every person in this city to feel safe, and we will protect anyone from harm or danger.”

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said about 150 members of the Illinois National Guard are on standby in Chicago in case the protests escalate.

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