Protesters who want Gov. J.B. Pritzker to announce a plan to reopen the Illinois economy have scheduled a Friday rally outside the Thompson Center in the Loop.
“Illinois residents have tolerated the government plan for over a month – without a plan on how to slowly and safely reopen the state’s economy,” a news release announcing the event states. “We need to discuss the process of cautiously returning back to work.”
The Friday demonstration would be the latest in a series of protests around the country against stay-at-home orders designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Beth Rogers, of Springfield, stands in the rain with her sign demanding, “Open Illinois Now,” during a protest in front of the Capitol building on April , (Ted Schurter / The State Journal-Register)
It follows a Sunday event where a small group of protesters holding “Don’t tread on me” flags and chanting “Open Illinois!” demonstrated outside the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield.
Asked about lawsuits against Pritzker to end the stay-at- home order and the planned Friday downtown rally, Mayor Lori Lightfoot on Wednesday said it only makes sense to start easing the restrictions when evidence shows the state is getting the outbreak under control.
The Loop event is being organized by Freedom Movement USA, which on its website describes itself as “a group.” of like-minded Republican activists. ” The organization has held pro-President Donald Trump rallies in other parts of the state.
The Thompson Center event is scheduled from 9 am to 3 pm, and will feature several speakers, according to the Freedom Movement USA release.
There’s also a change.org petition launched by frequent political candidate William Kelly to seek signatures in support of recalling Pritzker.
A similar rally is planned for noon on Friday in Springfield.
Read More
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings