Chicago Protestors Demand End to U.S. Aid to Israel, Advocate for Palestinian Rights

CHICAGO – A large demonstration, identified as the Chicago CJP march, took place on Saturday, drawing a crowd of protestors who voiced strong opposition to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and U.S. foreign policy. Participants were seen carrying Palestinian flags and engaging in chants. A key speaker addressed the assembled crowd from atop a vehicle, using a microphone to amplify her message. She criticized the allocation of U.S. financial aid to Israel, specifically citing a figure of $17 billion. The speaker argued that these funds could be better utilized for domestic programs such as healthcare and education within U.S. communities. "This money could be used for healthcare, education, for our communities," the speaker stated, emphasizing the need to re-evaluate national spending priorities. She further highlighted the perceived irony of criticizing political figures while ignoring systemic issues, asserting that "violence like genocide and deportations are baked into United States institutions." The protest aimed to bring attention to the conflict and advocate for Palestinian rights, with signs visible among the crowd, including one that read, "Snacks for everyone except Zionist colonizers." The event underscored a growing sentiment among some segments of the population regarding the U.S. role in international conflicts and the call for institutional change.