The Unsanctioned CTU Strike Action Nobody Told You About

Chicago Police lined all paths to North Shore Drive at the completion of the CTU strike march (all photos Joe Brusky).
Chicago Police lined all paths to North Shore Drive at the completion of the CTU strike march (all photos Joe Brusky).
There were two marches during the Chicago Teachers Union (CTU) day of action on Friday. Everyone heard about the one that drew tens of thousands into the streets of Chicago to demand greater funding and accountability for the city’s public schools. Different community groups, organizations and ally groups also joined the CTU’s call to action. The march people didn’t hear about took place after the larger first march. It was much smaller but equally intense.
There was little media coverage of the phalanx of protestors in the CTU action who started a second more radical march at the completion of the sanctioned march. This march was rapidly formed and the protestors made their way towards the North Lake Shore Drive in order to shut it down. CPD immediately detained anyone who attempted to cross their line, exhibiting a bit of “pain compliance” as they rammed the crowd back with their bicycles and horses. Several were arrested and detained. Traffic was snarled to a stop in both lanes for a while, frustrating rush hour commuters.  The marchers were dispersed after takedowns and arrests
CPD uses pain compliance to subdue this protester.
This woman yelled at officers after her friend was pushed over.
Notice the protester in the background being chased by CPD.
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Officers continue to shove anyone who came by the street back.
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The man in the foreground of the photo was shoved to the ground and arrested, as evidenced by the dirt on his face. The situation was tense and officers definitely were on edge and appeared to be very nervous.
This protester was cuffed and hauled away after being slammed to the muddy ground.
This protester was cuffed and hauled away after being slammed to the muddy ground.
CPD used their bikes to violently ram protesters off the road.

 

CPD Pushes Protesters Back After CTU Strike March from Overpass Light Brigade on Vimeo.