The first day of the US Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago kicked off with a demonstration and march of more than 240 groups led by Palestinian activists, setting the tone for a party gathering that can't ignore Israel's genocidal war on Gaza. Organisers began setting up mid-morning with the efficiency of a movement that has been building momentum for 10 months. Protest signs were lined up on the lawn, there was a press sign-in table for journalists to register, and organisers set up booths with literature for people to learn about their causes, in many ways akin to a convention. Though the Coalition to March on the DNC represented a range of issues, the two main demands of the march were a permanent ceasefire in Gaza and an arms embargo on Israel. The crowd gradually grew to thousands in the park near the DNC venue. At around 3 pm, the march began, as protesters held signs, Palestinian flags and chanted. The police presence was significant, though not nearly as heavy as what was seen at the Republican convention.
