Community Corner

PHOTOS: Hundreds Rally At 'No Kings' Protest In Orland Park

The protest was held Saturday, June 14 along LaGrange Road near Orland Square Mall.

ORLAND PARK, IL — An estimated 1,000 people gathered in Orland Park June 14, to protest Donald Trump's presidency.

Organized by South Suburban Relentless, the event was intended to show resistance and solidarity against authoritarianism. The local "No Kings" rally took place near Orland Square Mall, and estimates range between 800 and 1,200 attendees. Mayor Jim Dodge lauded the crowd for protesting peacefully.

"Exercising First Amendment rights, peacefully and respectfully, sets the standard for our community," Dodge said this week. "By coming together in a non-violent manner, you demonstrated the power of unity and respectful dialogue. You represent a strength in our community and the values we uphold in Orland Park."

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Kaylee Pape, KPapePhotography
Kaylee Pape, KPapePhotography
Kaylee Pape, KPapePhotography
Kaylee Pape, KPapePhotography

The protest was one of 2,000 held in cities across the country. In Chicago, tens of thousands converged on Daley Plaza. In the suburbs, nearly 2,000 protested in Joliet and 1,200 in Elmhurst.

“No Kings is a nationwide day of defiance,” according to organizers. “From city blocks to small towns, from courthouse steps to community parks, we’re taking action to reject authoritarianism — and show the world what democracy really looks like.”

Find out what's happening in Orland Parkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Mayor Jim Dodge expressed gratitude toward police and protesters.

"I also want to extend a special thank you to the Orland Park Police Department, under the guidance of Chief Eric Rossi, for their professionalism and support in ensuring a safe environment for all participants," Dodge said in a statement. "Thank you for your commitment to community safety while respecting the community’s right to protest.

"Thank you to all for exemplifying how protest can bring awareness to a point of view while prioritizing safety and respect for one another. Together, we can continue to foster an environment where everyone's voice is heard."

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