KENWOOD — In the fight to get the powers that be to recognize their cause, many of Chicago's activists have found creative ways to get their point across.
This time around, they took their message to the local home of the president of the United States.
Protesters blocked traffic Friday in the 5000 block of South Greenwood Avenue, in front of Secret Service barricades, to call attention to the perceived lack of action from President Barack Obama on issues surrounding the strained relationship between law enforcement and the black community.
To illustrate their point, the protesters, led by activist Jedidiah Brown, staged a series of "die-ins" in front of the block that leads to the president's home.
Protesters stage a die-in in front of the @POTUS' Hyde Park home. pic.twitter.com/QxNZKYrzcB
— Evan F. Moore (@evanFmoore) July 8, 2016
During his time in the White House, Brown wants Obama to use the same approach he has before regarding other topics to address issues concerning African-Americans, such as police brutality.
"We need policy and direction. Just like he did when he brought the troops out of a war zone. Just like he did for immigration issues," Brown said. "Just like he did for the economy. He told us where we were going and how we were going to get there."
Brown said that while Obama has done some great things, he could do more for the black community.
"The quality of black life in America has not changed," Brown said. "We're tired of seeing police not be accountable, so that's why we're here at the president's doorstep."
"You have all of this protection for a house that Obama don't even live in." pic.twitter.com/AweqDzzwjf
— Evan F. Moore (@evanFmoore) July 8, 2016
Many of the people who spoke at the rally said they believe that Obama's influence could go a long way in making police more accountable.
Sabrina, a Rogers Park resident, said she saw Brown's video on Facebook announcing the protest near the president's home and decided to come because of Brown's message of prayer.
"When he spoke of God and prayer, I thought that he shouldn't be out here by himself," Sabrina said. "I didn't want to be with a violent protest. He's respecting everybody, even the people who are upset."
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