Last updated: Thursday, August 15, 2024, 01:08 GMT
Street closures around the United Center for the Chicago Democratic National Convention began Monday and will last through August 25.
The 2024 Democratic National Convention will be held Monday, August 19, through Thursday, August 22, at the United Center and McCormick Place in Chicago.
Extensive street closures, parking restrictions and security measures are already in place as the Democratic Party’s most influential players, thousands of delegates and numerous celebrities descend on the city. In addition, several protests are planned to begin on Sunday before the DNC begins.
We have the latest information on preparations, protests, celebrations and everything else happening in the city.
US District Judge Andrea Wood denied requests from pro-Palestinian protest organizers for a temporary restraining order to change the approved route for their planned protest. They announced they would appeal the ruling.
Wood’s decision kept the alternate parade route the city proposed several weeks ago as the final version for Monday’s protesters. In her ruling, the judge said the plaintiffs’ arguments were far from sufficient to prove a First Amendment violation.
The organizers did not want to comment on whether or not they would adhere to the city’s established protest route if their appeal failed.
READ MORE: Federal judge rejects pro-Palestinian organizers’ request to change DNC protest route
The Secret Service and city government have assured the public that the DNC will be safe, but because of this, some local businesses are being forced to close their doors during the convention.
The Chicago police promised that their officers would protect not only the grounds around the convention, but also the neighborhoods.
But in the West Loop, one spa owner is taking no chances and will close during the DNC to avoid inconvenience and safety concerns. Others aren’t worried about safety and are instead hoping for a boost in business from the convention.
Read our full story: Some local businesses close because of the DNC as Chicago police and Secret Service try to address concerns
