Thousands March to Grant Park in Abortion Rights Protest

Multiple streets were closed downtown Chicago as thousands marched to Grant Park Friday evening during a protest of the Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

Prior to the march, a number of people gathered at Federal Plaza, with some holding signs that read "No abortion bans, not now, not ever!" and "I dream one day women will have the same rights as guns."

The Chicago Police Department tweeted streets were temporarily closed around the Loop for a peaceful protest and advised people to avoid the area.

Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle were among those in attendance at the rally prior to the march. Equality Illinois, the ACLU of Illinois and Abortion Rights Chicago were among the dozens of organizations who worked together to plan Friday evening's rally in the hours following the Supreme Court decision.

The protest was one of multiple rallies planned throughout the Chicago area, with others expected to take place in Naperville and Wheaton.

Another rally is planned for Saturday at Federal Plaza.

Contact Us