Illinois quick hits: Chicago firefighters look to protest; campus protesters appear in court
Chicago firefighters look to protest
The Chicago firefighters union has been denied a permit for a protest near the United Center during the Democratic National Convention. Now, it’s considering its next move. The firefighters have gone three years without a contract. They’re asking for pay raises, more ambulances and more paramedics.
Campus protesters appear in court
Seven Illinois State University students appeared in court Wednesday accused of criminal trespassing during a Gaza war protest on campus in May. The attorney representing each defendant submitted two subpoena requests to the judge that challenges the charges. The students met with the school president, then according to an ISU spokesperson, the students were notified that the building would close at a certain time and were warned of consequences if they didn’t leave. Campus police were called to remove them from the hall without incident and taken to the McLean County Jail.
Lollapalooza begins
Lollapalooza kicks off Thursday in Chicago. The four-day music festival takes place in Grant Park. Headliners include Blink-182, the Killers, and Megan Thee Stallion. More than 170 other artists will be performing across eight stages. There are also several after-show performances at venues around the city. Numerous streets are closed around the festival, so city officials are urging people to use public transportation.