As of this writing, the outcome of the 2020 Presidential Election is still up in the air, as ballots continue to be counted in close races throughout the nation. The uncertainty of the results gave way to a relatively quiet night in Chicago, devoid of the expected protests that spurred businesses throughout the city to board up their windows and an increased police presence in various commercial corridors. The city only raised a single bridge last night (the Wabash Bridge leading to Trump Tower), but it's possible that more could be raised this evening.
During a press conference that outlined public safety precautions last Friday, Mayor Lori Lightfoot asked Chicagoans to engage in "peaceful and productive expressions" in the wake of the election, noting that "[Chicago Police Department] officers will continue to ensure residents expressing First Amendment rights are protected and given the support they need to stay safe."
On the heels of late-night remarks from President Donald Trump suggesting that the counting of ballots should be cut off and a speech in which Joe Biden urged the nation to have patience as votes are tabulated, local activists are planning demonstrations in Chicago this evening. There are three major rallies scheduled to take place in and around the Loop, all beginning at 5pm. If you're planning on attending, please be safe and wear a mask!
Taking place in Daley Plaza beginning at 5pm, the Illinois Election Defense Action Council (and a long list of co-host organizations) invite demonstrators to gather "as we exercise our people power and make sure every vote is counted and every voice is heard!" Attendees are being asked to bring face masks and maintain social distancing during the rally. Organizations associated with the event include the Chicago Teachers Union, Black Lives Matter Chicago, Fight for $15 and the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights.
Chicago Post-Election Protest for a People's Mandate
This post-election protest is also scheduled to take place in Daley Plaza at 5pm today, hosted by the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, the Arab American Action Network and the US Palestinian Community Network. "No matter who wins, we are hitting the streets hard to push forward the people's demands," reads a poster for the protest, alongside demands that include economic relief for the unemployed, protecting healthcare, stopping evictions and establishing community control of the police.
Post-Election Rally: Democracy Requires a Whole New System!
UPDATE: This demonstration has been postponed, with organizers directing attendees to head to the events in Daley Plaza.
Gathering at Wacker and Wabash (near Trump Tower) at 5pm, this rally is hosted by the Party for Socialism and Liberation as well as Answer Chicago. In a statement, organizers argue that "Democracy requires a whole new system, a system of socialism that can provide for people’s needs." The protest will raise awareness of demands like the canceling of rents and mortgages for the duration of the pandemic, an end to mass incarceration, reparations for Black and Native communities and free healthcare. Face masks and social distancing are required at this rally.
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