As Republicans begin their national convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday, July 15, protestors including the Coalition to March on the RNC 2024 began protesting in a local Milwaukee park. The week is expected to bring many demonstrations and rallies in favor and against the Republicans.

Demonstrators have united under five key points to combat what they say is the racist and reactionary agenda of the GOP. The points include defending the reproductive rights of women, the rights of LGBTQ people, defending and expanding immigration rights, standing with Palestine, and ensuring peace and justice for everyone.

Additional counter-protestors to the protesters were also present, some holding signs against Islam and the Black Lives Matter movement.

Supporters for former President Donald Trump also gathered on Sunday at another downtown park to hold a prayer vigil following the attempt on Trump’s life in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Security throughout Milwaukee is tight, with the majority of streets downtown blocked off with cement barriers. Credentialed Delegates, journalists and visitors will be put through security sweeps before being granted access to the perimeter around the convention venue.