In response to protesters breaching an outer perimeter fence near the United Center in Chicago, crews worked early Tuesday morning to install an additional line of security fences. About a dozen workers were seen installing a third row of fencing on Washington Boulevard, stretching east from the breached area. This new row of fencing is positioned between two existing rows that were already in place.
Thousands of individuals, including families with babies, students, elected leaders, and other concerned citizens, gathered to protest against the war in Gaza on the first day of the Democratic National Convention. The peaceful march towards the United Center aimed to call for a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas conflict.
Despite the majority of protesters marching peacefully, a small group broke away and tore down parts of the security fence. Several individuals who managed to breach the fence were detained and handcuffed by the police. In response to escalating tensions, officers donned gas masks as some protesters attempted to dismantle a second fence set up in front of law enforcement.
Authorities confirmed that the inner security perimeter surrounding the convention site remained intact, ensuring the safety of convention attendees. Inside the arena, a few protesters unfurled a banner reading “STOP ARMING ISRAEL,” which was later blocked by other attendees holding “WE LOVE JOE” signs. The stadium management intervened by dimming the lights in the section until the protesters were escorted out.
