Hundreds March to Trump Tower for International Women's Day

Protesters gathered in Chicago's Loop to demand equality and justice for women under the Trump administration.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A few hundred protesters marched to Trump Tower in Chicago on Sunday as part of nationwide Women's March events honoring International Women's Day. The demonstrators gathered in Daley Plaza, carrying signs referencing issues like abortion, immigration, the war in Iran, and women's rights. Speakers emphasized the importance of women advocating for equality and voting in upcoming elections, including the Illinois primary on March 17.

Why it matters

The International Women's Day protest in Chicago reflects the ongoing efforts of women's rights activists to push for change under the Trump administration. The march highlights concerns about issues like reproductive rights, immigration policies, and violence against women both domestically and abroad.

The details

The event began with speeches from local activists, elected officials, and political candidates who spoke about the need for women to continue fighting for justice and equality. Speakers also called for an end to violence in Iran, Palestine, and at ICE detention centers. Precious Brady-Davis, the first Black and openly transgender woman elected to the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, expressed hope that her daughters would know they can achieve anything.

  • The protest took place on Sunday, March 8, 2026, which was International Women's Day.
  • The Illinois primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

The players

Jane Ruby

The president of the League of Women Voters of Chicago.

Precious Brady-Davis

A commissioner for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District, making her the first Black and openly transgender woman serving as an elected official in Cook County.

Jane Nicholson

A 78-year-old Loop resident who has been attending International Women's Day marches for decades.

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What they’re saying

“International Women's Day matters because women have never been handed justice. Women have organized for it, marched for it, demanded it, won it and still, we are fighting.”

— Jane Ruby, President of the League of Women Voters of Chicago (Chicago Tribune)

“I want them to know that Mom is on the front lines today, and I don't want the kids to be on the front lines until they have to. I don't want those little girls losing their innocence. I want them to know that there are people who will continue to stand in the gap for them.”

— Precious Brady-Davis, Commissioner, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (Chicago Tribune)

“We're underrepresented (and) under-respected.”

— Jane Nicholson (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The Illinois primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026, and activists are encouraging women to vote in order to push for change under the Trump administration.

The takeaway

The International Women's Day protest in Chicago demonstrates the ongoing commitment of women's rights activists to fight for equality and justice, even in the face of continued challenges under the Trump presidency. The march highlights the importance of women's political participation and the need for sustained advocacy on issues like reproductive rights, immigration, and violence against women.