As the Democratic National Convention approaches, several businesses in Chicago's downtown area are taking precautionary measures to protect their properties.
WGN-TV reports that a number of establishments have begun boarding up their windows and doors with plywood in anticipation of potential unrest during the event scheduled for August 19-22.
The decision to secure properties comes as the city prepares to host thousands of visitors, including delegates, media personnel, and protesters. While authorities have assured the public of comprehensive security measures, some business owners are opting for additional safeguards to protect their assets based on past experiences.
Several business owners in the downtown area have voiced their concerns about the possibility of property damage during the convention. The memory of past protests and unrest has prompted these preventive actions, with some establishments choosing to board up windows and doors.
One such business is Syd Jerome Menswear, located on Madison Street near City Hall and along the route to the United Center. Scott Shapiro, the owner, explained that his storefront had been damaged on four previous occasions, including broken windows, looted merchandise, and other property damage. Shapiro stated that he's had "zero indication" of any additional protections in the Loop, leading to his decision to reinforce the windows.
Chicago Board Up Services, a local company, reported that they have already boarded up at least a dozen locations around the West Loop, downtown, and Daley Plaza. They have plans to work on additional businesses over the weekend.
Chicago city officials have been working to address the safety concerns of local businesses and residents. Mayor Brandon Johnson, when asked about the potential for violence during the convention, insisted that Chicago is prepared for the event. Johnson stated:
To assuage people's concerns, the only thing that I can say is we're really good at this. … I understand why people might have some trepidation because you have elements in this world that want to take us back to a very dark path. … But here's one thing that I know for sure, as a social studies teacher, our democracy will not only survive, we will come out stronger.
The mayor reiterated that Chicago's police force has been coordinating with the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies on DNC security for an extended period.
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling, in a sit-down interview with WGN on Thursday, expressed confidence in the department's ability to handle any potential unrest. Snelling stated that his officers are better trained and better prepared to manage any violence that may erupt compared to four years ago in the wake of George Floyd's death.
The Democratic National Convention has a long history in Chicago, with the city having hosted the event 12 times previously. The last time Chicago hosted the convention was nearly 30 years ago when President Bill Clinton was nominated for a second term.
While some businesses are taking protective measures, others are less concerned about potential unrest. A spokesperson for the Chicago Loop Alliance expressed confidence that the convention will proceed successfully without harm to businesses, considering the boarding up of windows with plywood to be unnecessary.
Vicki Fichter, business manager for Chicago Board Up Services, offered a balanced perspective on the situation. She stated:
If you feel you're in any type of line where you feel there's going to be a lot of commotion — we're not pushing it — we're hoping the city will be comfortable and there wont be no unrest. But if you feel you want your doors boarded, it's better to have them boarded up than have to wait and replace glass.
Some downtown Chicago businesses are taking precautionary measures by boarding up their storefronts as the city prepares to host the 2024 Democratic National Convention. City officials and law enforcement agencies have developed comprehensive security plans to address safety concerns. The convention, scheduled for August 19-22, marks Chicago's 13th time hosting the event, with the last occurrence nearly 30 years ago. While opinions differ on the necessity of protective measures, authorities express confidence in their ability to manage the event successfully.
