As Chicago braces for Democratic National Convention, concerns over safety mount

As Chicago prepares to host over 50,000 attendees for the Democratic National Convention next week, city officials are focused on ensuring a successful and secure event for both visitors and residents.

Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling assured the public of their commitment to safety at a City Club of Chicago event. "Our goal is to keep everyone in the city safe and ensure the event’s success," Snelling stated.

Despite the anticipated presence of thousands of protesters, Snelling emphasized that the city is better equipped than in 2020, when civil unrest following George Floyd's death led to widespread arson, looting, and riots. For over a year, officers and police leadership have undergone additional training to handle potential civil disobedience. Additionally, hundreds of extra law enforcement officers from across the state will support security efforts, not only around the United Center but across all 50 of Chicago's neighborhoods.

"We have a city to protect. The Chicago Police Department will be present in every neighborhood, ensuring resources are not depleted from local areas," Snelling said.

Despite these preparations, concerns linger among downtown business owners. Some are boarding up their storefronts and offices, wary of potential looting similar to the 2020 incidents. Scott Shapiro, owner of Syd Jerome menswear, voiced frustration about the city's track record on business protection.

In parallel, activists have been challenging the city in federal court over protest permits. The Coalition to March on the DNC, representing 200 social justice organizations from the Midwest, sued the city after being granted permits but restricted from constructing stages and setting up necessary equipment at Union Park. An emergency court hearing on Friday resulted in the city allowing stage and speaker setup for both rallies. U.S. District Judge Andrea Wood also mandated that activists adhere to a designated protest route that is shorter and further from the United Center.

The first major protest will take place at noon on Monday at Union Park, about four blocks from the convention site. Tens of thousands of participants from various states are expected to join, according to Coalition spokesperson Hatem Abudayyeh. A second march is scheduled for 5 p.m. on Thursday. Additionally, a third march at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, organized by the Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine, has been approved by the city.

Abudayyeh criticized the city's approved protest route, arguing that the shorter path with sharp turns could lead to bottlenecks and prolonged delays, potentially resulting in arrests. He emphasized the coalition's experience in organizing safe marches and called for the city to avoid unnecessary risks.

Snelling acknowledged the potential for logistical challenges but expressed confidence in the department’s readiness to adapt as needed. "We have to be fluid. Things are always evolving, and we'll make adjustments to accommodate that," he said.

Another major concern for the city is the possibility of neighborhood violence impacting areas where delegates are staying or visiting. This issue has been highlighted by recent violent incidents, including over 100 shootings and 19 fatalities during the Fourth of July weekend.

Snelling, with his experience in managing large-scale events like the 2012 NATO Summit, noted that recent summer events such as Lollapalooza and the Chicago Air and Water Show were handled with minimal disruption. "Our deployment strategy has proven effective," he said. "We’re ready for the convention and committed to ensuring a safe and successful event for everyone involved."