Downtown Chicago became a hub for protestors on Saturday as a coalition of activists from various communities gathered to oppose policies implemented by President Donald Trump’s second administration.
Hundreds of demonstrators, representing immigration advocacy groups, pro-Palestinian organizations, and other justice-focused movements, united in what was called the “People’s March for Justice.”
Originally planned as a counter-inauguration protest earlier in the week, the march was postponed due to extreme cold. The event drew support and swelled to approximately 1,000 people by the time the march reached Trump Tower.
“We are really showing that working people are united to oppose fascism, to oppose racism, to oppose his co-president Elon Musk making Nazi salutes at the inauguration,” Elena Gormley, one of the demonstrators, said to ABC 7.
#Chicago #protest pic.twitter.com/0952bxJvea
— plant723 (@TriedToBeATree) January 25, 2025
Protesters began their march at Water Tower Park, traveling down Michigan Avenue before staging a rally near Trump Tower. The event was marked by chants, speeches, and signs denouncing the administration’s policies, which many attendees described as oppressive and discriminatory.
“I just think it’s really important to have solidarity, especially at times like these, regardless of what’s happened,” said one protester. “What’s done is done, but we can still fight for change.”
Among the demands of the coalition was a call for immediate humanitarian aid for Gaza and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.
Immigration rights were another key focus, with many attendees raising concerns about Trump’s proposed mass deportations and the precarious status of individuals with Temporary Protected Status.
The coalition, which included over 60 organizations, vowed to continue their activism until changes are made. Their message was clear: the fight against racism, fascism, and oppressive policies is far from over.
The “People’s March for Justice” represents a growing movement of communities united by a shared vision of equity, inclusion, and human rights.
