As the Democratic National Convention approaches, Chicago is bracing itself for potential unrest and protests. While the current political landscape differs greatly from the events of the late 1960s, concerns have been raised about the city's preparedness for any resulting chaos.

In recent months, anti-war and pro-Palestinian demonstrations on college campuses have sparked clashes between protesters and police, reminiscent of the infamous chaos that surrounded the 1968 Democratic National Convention in Chicago. With the convention set to take place from August 19th to 22nd, the influx of potentially tens of thousands of protesters, some of whom may take to the streets without city permits, raises questions about the readiness of the Chicago Police Department to handle any resulting unrest.

While similar concerns arose ahead of the previous Chicago Democratic National Convention in 1996, as well as the NATO summit in 2012, divisions within the Democratic coalition are deeper this year. Progressives are expressing their dissatisfaction with President Joe Biden's ongoing support for Israel in its conflict with Hamas, as well as his recent order tightening border controls.

Policing has evolved significantly over the years, particularly when it comes to managing large-scale events like national political conventions. However, with the eyes of the world once again focused on Chicago, the city is determined to avoid any semblance of the 1968 clashes between law enforcement and protesters that were later described as a "police riot" in a government report. The Chicago Police Department remains under a federal consent decree due to a long-standing history of civil rights violations.

Leading up to this year's convention, organizers and police officials have sought to downplay concerns about potential unrest, refuting any comparison to the events that led to the infamous "Battle of Michigan Avenue" in 1968. Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling reassured the public, stating that the response from the police department will be more deliberate and controlled, with officers receiving comprehensive training to handle any level of civil unrest.

As preparations for the convention continue, the memories of clashes between police officers and anti-war protesters in downtown Chicago and Lincoln Park in 1968 serve as a cautionary reminder of the importance of maintaining order and respect for civil rights. Chicago's ability to successfully navigate any potential unrest during the convention will serve as an important test for the city and its police department, as they strive to uphold public safety while protecting the rights of protesters.

With the eyes of the nation watching, Chicago hopes to ensure that this year's convention will not be marred by the violence of the past, as it aspires to set a new standard for the management of peaceful protests and the protection of civil liberties.