Chicago DNC 2024: Protesters march on first day of convention

CHICAGO - The Democratic National Convention in Chicago has prompted large demonstrations and marches as activists seek to have their voices heard.

One of the largest demonstrations today is the Coalition to March on the DNC, which began in Union Park with a rally at noon before the march stepped off around 3 p.m.

Made up of over 200 organizations, the Coalition to March on the DNC includes the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, the U.S. Palestinian Community Network and the Arab American Action Network.

The coalition is calling for:

• The U.S. to end aid to Israel
• Give the community control of police
• Immigrant Rights and Legalization for All!
• The defense of LGBTQIA+ and reproductive rights
• Money for Jobs, School, Healthcare, Housing, and Environment, Not for War!
• The right to unionize and strike

There has been a months-long battle in court over the route of the march, which activists claim is too short for the tens of thousands of participants they expect to participate.

The coalition challenged the City of Chicago's 1.1-mile march route, calling for it to be extended farther west and closer to the United Center with a total length of 2.3 miles.

LIST: Chicago DNC 2024: Protests, marches and rallies

Last week, a federal judge sided with the City of Chicago, deciding not to intervene with the previously planned route.

Ahead of the coalition, The United States Palestinian Community Network hosted a demonstration at 9 a.m. Monday in Union Park.

Protesters gathered downtown Sunday to voice their demands on LGBTQ liberation, abortion rights, and Palestinian issues.