Judge Upholds DNC Protest Route Amid Gaza Conflict

A federal judge ruled that the protest route for demonstrations against the Gaza conflict during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago will remain as proposed by city officials, despite objections from organizers. Judge Andrea Wood found that the 1.4-mile route from Union Park to Park 578 satisfies First Amendment requirements and addresses significant governmental interests. Protesters, represented by the Coalition to March on the DNC, had sought a longer route closer to the United Center, alleging that the current plan violates their free speech rights. The city argued that the original route could create safety risks due to crowd surges against security barriers. Organizers plan to appeal the decision, asserting that the restricted route limits their ability to effectively communicate their message. The judge's decision allows protests to occur within 'sight and sound' of DNC delegates, balancing security concerns with protester rights.