An Assault on Public Property and Free Speech
On September 7, 2013 an anti Syrian war rally was held at Federal Plaza, Adams St. at Dearborn St., Chicago. LaSalle St from Jackson St. to Madison St. was closed to accommodate filming the movie Transformers. Yet peace marchers on their way to the Tribune Tower were forced onto the sidewalk from the street by the Chicago Police Department (CPD). Once at the Tribune Tower the marchers were not allowed on the Plaza, because of 'private property', according to the CPD. Yet there were several wedding parties on the Tribune Plaza taking pictures.
The Slut Walk later in the day was also forced onto the sidewalk. But many sidewalks are restricted due to private restaurant's use of public sidewalks for their outdoor cafes. After the Slut Walk marchers were not allowed to use the Thompson Center to catch the train or use restrooms. Why? A private party was using the public State of Illinois Thompson Center.
The encroachment on public space by private interests is not just on free speech.
The Slut Walk later in the day was also forced onto the sidewalk. But many sidewalks are restricted due to private restaurant's use of public sidewalks for their outdoor cafes. After the Slut Walk marchers were not allowed to use the Thompson Center to catch the train or use restrooms. Why? A private party was using the public State of Illinois Thompson Center.
The encroachment on public space by private interests is not just on free speech.