Chicago Mayor: ‘Get Active!’ Against Trump’s Policies

Mayor Johnson Rallies Chicago Against Trump Administration

Chicago, IL – Mayor Brandon Johnson took to the streets Saturday to rally a passionate crowd against what he called “assaults against working people and immigrants.” Speaking at the “No Kings” rally in downtown Chicago, Johnson urged residents to “get active” and participate in the democratic process to counter policies he believes harm everyday citizens and benefit the ultra-rich.

The rally drew a significant number of people frustrated by current national policies. “They’ve been watching everything happen on their TV screens and on their phones,” said reporter Maya Eagland, who was covering the event. Johnson, addressing the crowd, stated, “We have to end the assaults against working people… and in these endless wars.” He specifically targeted what he described as protections for the “ultra-rich” by the Trump administration, emphasizing that working people “are going to stand united to make sure that our values are protected.”

Addressing Fear and Protecting Rights

The mayor acknowledged the fear some community members feel, especially after events like those at the Broadview Center. “That’s exactly what the Trump administration wants,” Johnson declared. He stressed the importance of unity, stating, “We’re stronger when we stand together.” To combat these challenges, his administration has utilized executive orders, litigation, and on-the-ground organizing.

Johnson highlighted his administration’s efforts to protect residents, mentioning his presence in communities like Little Village and Chinatown to support small businesses. He argued that the Trump administration’s policies have dismantled the economy, making it harder for working people to thrive. Despite these difficulties, he noted, “Today, you can see that our movement is getting larger, we’re stronger, and our resolve is still steady.”

From Protest to Action: Driving Change

For those watching from afar and questioning the impact of such gatherings, Mayor Johnson’s message was clear: “We have to get active.” He urged active participation in the democratic process, pointing to recent election shifts as proof that change is possible. “So things are happening,” he assured.

Johnson detailed concrete actions taken by his administration. “We have signed multiple executive orders to force ICE out of the city of Chicago,” he announced. He also proudly stated that “Every single lawsuit that we have filed against the administration, we have prevailed.” He drew parallels to historical struggles, noting, “Those that came before us fought the same type of system that is trying to dominate us today.” He credited past generations for their fight, which secured rights like civil rights, women’s rights, and immigrant rights. “Folks are trying hard to roll back those rights. We have to ensure that we protect them and then, of course, grow them.”

Chicago’s Focus on Affordability and Safety

When asked about the primary concerns of Chicago residents, Johnson pointed to affordability. “Affordability is on everyone’s mind,” he confirmed. In response, his administration has launched significant initiatives. “I put forth a 1.25 billion dollar bond to build more affordable homes, to support our small businesses,” he said, calling it “the largest investment in the history of Chicago.” Further investments include a half-billion dollars for public schools and expanded mental and behavioral health care services. The city has also focused on youth employment, hiring young people for summer jobs, which he described as “the greatest investment we’ve seen for youth employment.”

These investments, Johnson argued, are leading to safer communities. He reported that Chicago experienced “the fewest amount of homicides in 60 years.” The city is working to drive violence down, expand mental health care, and support workers. “That’s how we’re becoming the safest, most affordable big city in America,” he stated. This approach, he believes, is what is happening in Chicago.

Patriotism Redefined Through Dissent

Addressing the notion that opposing the president is unpatriotic, Mayor Johnson offered a historical perspective. “That’s not the way our history has been defined,” he explained. As a former public school teacher, he believes that “every single major transformational moment that our country has ever experienced is because we stood up to the government.” He sees the Trump administration’s efforts to suppress votes and create intimidation as attempts to stifle this fundamental aspect of American progress.

Johnson concluded with a message of resilience and inspiration, referencing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s sentiment that “if we do it right in Chicago, we can do it anywhere in the world.” He affirmed, “So we’re doing it right here in Chicago. So look out, world.” The mayor was then set to take the stage to address the rally directly.

Source: ‘Get active!’: Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson speaks out against Trump at ‘No Kings’ rally (YouTube)