Pro-Israel Group Plans Rally During DNC in Chicago

CHICAGO (CBS) – A pro-Israel organization is set to gather near the United Center during the upcoming Democratic National Convention to express solidarity with hostages held by Hamas. The event, dubbed Hostage Square Chicago, will feature artists from Israel and around the world showcasing their messages of support. Among the poignant displays will be a video of Naama Levy, a young woman taken hostage by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which has deeply impacted Israeli artist Tomer Peretz. Peretz has created a large-scale art installation featuring the blood-stained sweatpants worn by Levy during her abduction, symbolizing the ongoing plight of hostages. He described the project as a personal response to the traumatic events of that day, aiming to evoke a similar emotional resonance in Chicago. Aya Schechter from the Israeli American Council emphasized the importance of bringing awareness to the hostages' situation, stating that the rally aims to capture the urgency of their plight. Despite having their permit denied for a location close to the United Center, the Israeli American Council has secured a private lot nearby for the event. Schechter expressed concerns about visibility and impact, noting that the alternative location offered was not conducive to drawing attention. For security reasons, the exact location of Hostage Square Chicago will remain undisclosed, but organizers are determined to make their voices heard during the DNC.