Community Alerts
2021 Inauguration Day Preparedness
Tomorrow, Wednesday, January 20th, is the Presidential Inauguration. Government and civilian officials have indicated a heightened potential for violence in the lead up to and on Inauguration Day. In addition to intelligence gathered by law enforcement officials, there have been widespread calls for violent action from domestic extremists who continue to discuss targeting public officials, ideological opponents, and government property.
Recent incidents of ideologically motivated violence, including rioters storming the U.S. Capitol and major demonstrations involving armed protest at government buildings, have led to the mobilization and deployment of government, military and civilian security personnel. Key areas of concern are Washington D.C. and all the State Capitols.
While there are no known credible threats for Chicago, law enforcement in the City will be on a proactive footing to counter any violent activity that may occur. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) will activate the City of Chicago’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) on Wednesday, January 20th to coordinate the City’s public safety response to the events surrounding the presidential inauguration as needed.
As a precaution, City Hall (121 N. LaSalle) and the Cook County Building (118 N. Clark) will be closed on Wednesday, January 20th.
Scheduled Inauguration Day Central Business District Demonstration:
Wednesday, January 20th, 2021:
12:00 – 4:00 pm at 100 W Randolph St (Thompson Center Food Court). The group will gather for their cause “America First – Biden’s Not My President.” (Please note: The event is called to be held inside, but there is a high probability that any demonstration will be moved outside, including the public area at Randolph and Clark.)
Safety Tips:
- If you see something suspicious, report it
- Carry water and stay hydrated
- Choose a landmark to meet at in case you are separated from your group
- Utilize the buddy system
- Remain alert and be observant of surroundings
- Leave any valuables at home
- Do not jump any barricades
- Secure handbags and wallets
- Stay calm and pleasant
- Follow your own instincts
- Leave yourself room to move quickly
- If you see an unattended bag, alert police as quickly as possible
Additional Resources:
- Demonstration Building Security Preparedness Checklist – Click Here
- BOMA/Chicago Best Practices Guide for Civil Unrest/Disturbances/Protests – Click Here
- Tips to Protect Chicago’s Businesses by City of Chicago – Click Here
- Join the BOMA/Chicago Security Slack Channel – Click Here
As always, if you “See Something, Say Something.” For life-threatening emergencies, call 911. To report suspicious activity, call 855-RPRT-2-S4 (855-777-8274).