Anti-2016 Rally Set For IOC's Visit

By Marcus Gilmer in News on Mar 17, 2009 5:40PM

When the International Olympic Committee pays Chicago a visit in April, they'll be met by a large group of dignitaries and supporters of the Chicago 2016 Summer Olympic bid. But they'll also be met by a group of anti-Olympics protesters. No Games Chicago is saying they'll have a crowd of around 2,000 protesters for the 5 p.m. march from Federal Plaza to the Aon Center (home of Chicago 2016 HQ) on Thursday, April 2. Well, as along as they're granted a permit. One organizer, Bob Quellos, says he's received a permit to form in Federal Plaza already. Quellos voiced his opposition for the Games, saying, "We think it's the wrong priority for the city with the city crumbling." Chicago 2016 President Lori Healey didn't seemed to worried about the protests, saying, "While we respect the right to free speech, we have worked hard to ensure that our Games plan will have broad benefits for the city. Chicago's passion for sport has translated into strong public support for our bid." [Chicago Breaking News]