Orland Park will be one of the many Chicago-area sites for Saturday’s No Kings Rally taking place in cities across the nation to protest President Trump’s administration.
The Orland Park rally is being organized by South Suburban Relentless and is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 147th Street and LaGrange Road.
The main Chicago-area rally will take place downtown at Daley Plaza from noon to 2 p.m. It is expected to draw thousands of protesters.
On Friday, Orland Park Mayor Jim Dodge said, “We stand firmly behind the First Amendment right of our residents to peacefully assemble and express their voices. Our community is built on the principles of free speech and open dialogue, and we will do everything in our power to protect these rights while maintaining safety for all.
“The safety of our residents remains our utmost priority,” he said. “We encourage everyone who participates to do so responsibly and peacefully.”
Chief of Police Eric Rossi said officers will ensure a peaceful protest.
“Our department has undergone extensive training to handle various scenarios that may arise during protests. We have a history of peaceful demonstrations in Orland Park, and we are hopeful this will continue. However, we are prepared for any situation and will respond appropriately to ensure the safety of our community.”
For any ongoing questions or concerns, please contact the Orland Park Police Department directly at 708-349-4111.
Other area protests are planned for Chicago’s Beverly community from 1-3 p.m. and in southwest suburban La Grange from 4:30-7 p.m.
Protests are also planned for Chicago Heights, Joliet, Kankakee. In northwest Indiana, protest rallies are scheduled for Highland and Crown Point.