Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson called on parents and guardians to take steps to prevent what he called “unsanctioned teen gatherings” following reports of planned unauthorized large meetups this weekend.
“As we enter the weekend, I am urging parents, guardians and trusted adults to help prevent unsanctioned teen gatherings, know where your children are, and talk with them about the risks of attending these events,” Johnson said in a statement issued Friday afternoon, in part.
Amid reports of possible teen gatherings, the city took concrete steps to deter activity. The area surrounding Rainbow Beach was closed, with police vehicles and Department of Streets and Sanitation plows blocking entrances.
The efforts follow two large teen takeover events over Memorial Day weekend that resulted in more than 50 arrests. During the first incident on the Near West Side early Sunday morning, five Chicago police officers were injured while trying to disperse the crowd. The following night, Chicago police responded to reports of an apparent “teen trend” gathering at 57th Street Beach.
While similar gatherings have been reported across the country, the first of the two incidents in Chicago captured the attention of President Donald Trump, who took aim at Illinois’ governor and Johnson in a post on Truth Social:
“Teen takeover in Chicago,” he wrote. “Five officers badly hurt. Mayor and Governor are terrible. Should call for help!”
In response to chaotic scenes, faith and youth leaders said they are taking back their streets by organizing alternate events and trying to expose teenagers to programs and mentorships.
Still, as more gatherings remain possible, Johnson shared a stern message to teens in his statement on Friday afternoon: “…Do not attend these gatherings. They can escalate quickly and carry serious consequences.”
