'People's March for Justice': Immigration activists, pro-Palestinian groups protest Trump administration downtown Chicago
Share and Follow

CHICAGO (WLS) — A coalition of immigration activist, pro-Palestinian and other groups gathered Saturday afternoon downtown Chicago to push back against President Donald Trump’s administration.

The “People’s March for Justice” was originally scheduled as a counter-inauguration protest earlier this week, but it was postponed because of extreme cold weather.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

Outrage turned to action as a coalition of communities took to the streets to express their anger over the policies of the second Trump administration.

“I just think its really important to have solidarity, especially at times like these, regardless of what’s happened,” one demonstrator said. “What’s done is done.”

Hundreds gathered Saturday afternoon at Chicago’s Water Tower Park. The march trekked down Michigan Avenue and swelled to about a thousand people before another rally was staged across the river from 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,” demonstrator Elena Gormley said.

READ MORE | Elon Musk facing pushback for post-inauguration arm gesture, with some comparing it to Nazi salute

Some of the group of over 60 organizations are demanding the Trump administration focus on immediate aid for Gaza and an independent state for the Palestinian people.

“We are happy about the ceasefire,” said Nida Sahouri with American Muslims for Palestine. “Thank God the bloodshed stopped, but we are concerned about the liberation of Palestine.”

Others are concerned about President Trump’s promised mass deportations and how they will affect those with temporary protected immigration status.

“They make a big mistake by voting for Trump, because trump, he’s a liar,” said Mauro Navarro with TSP Alliance.

The groups said they will continue to protest by marching and rallying until there is change.

SEE ALSO | Trump signs executive order ending birthright citizenship, other immigration actions

Also on Saturday, more than 200 people packed a Columbia College auditorium in South Loop, demanding accountability for what they called President Trump’s “targeted attacks” on Chicago’s immigrant, minority and low-income communities.

Community organizers wanted to draw attention to what they described as a “bullseye” on Chicago during Trump’s presidency and to send a message of unity.

Activists said that the rally was about standing together.

Breakout sessions informed residents of their rights and provided resources.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share and Follow
You May Also Like
Houston thug charged with murder after 8 arrests shows ‘revolving door’ failures: GOP lawmaker

GOP Lawmaker Highlights Justice System Failures as Houston Suspect Faces Murder Charge Following 8 Previous Arrests

A Houston resident with a history of violent offenses has been detained…
Jaguars vs Chargers: Everything to know about Sunday's home game at EverBank Stadium

Ultimate Game Day Guide: Jaguars vs Chargers Showdown at EverBank Stadium

After a challenging defeat to the Houston Texans and the devastating news…
Hidden homeowner costs climb to nearly $16K a year, new analysis finds

Hidden Homeownership Expenses Surge to $16K Annually: New Analysis Reveals Shocking Cost Increase

A recent report highlights a concerning trend: maintenance, insurance, and property taxes…
How to watch Dolphins vs. Commanders in Madrid live for free

Stream Dolphins vs. Commanders Live from Madrid at No Cost: Here’s How

New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if…
OJ Simpson estate accepts Fred Goldman's $58M wrongful death claim nearly 30 years later: report

O.J. Simpson Finally Faces $58 Million Reckoning: Fred Goldman’s Long-Awaited Victory

In a significant move towards settling a longstanding financial obligation, the estate…
2025 CMA Awards: What to expect on Country Music's Biggest Night

2025 CMA Awards Preview: Unveiling Surprises and Highlights of Country Music’s Premier Event

The highly anticipated CMA Awards are set to dazzle audiences on ABC…
FAA seeks $3.1M fine from Boeing over safety violations

FAA Orders Inspections on More Boeing Models Following UPS Accident

Federal aviation authorities have broadened their emergency airworthiness directive to encompass McDonnell…
SNL's stuns crowd with disgusting 'sex joke' about Trump

SNL Shocks Fans with Bold Trump Joke: Did They Go Too Far?

During the latest episode of Saturday Night Live, comedian Michael Che caught…