In anticipation of the presidential debate tonight featuring Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in Philly, activists in the city have seized the moment to organize various protests addressing important issues ranging from the war in Gaza to reproductive rights.
While the debate at the National Constitution Center is set to start at 9 p.m., rallies have been planned throughout the day. The majority of protests are concentrated in Old City, so it would be wise for drivers to avoid the area. However, some demonstrations are taking place elsewhere. Here’s a rundown of the events happening around the city:
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Philly Palestine Coalition at City Hall
The Philly Palestine Coalition will be holding an event outside City Hall at 6:30 p.m. to show support for Palestine in the war in Gaza and protest the debate itself. The group contends that both candidates endorse genocide due to their backing of Israel. Protesters will be advocating for an arms embargo.
PETA at 6th and Market
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals will be showcasing a large mouse holding a sign that reads “Save Me and $22 Billion: End NIH Animal Experiments!” at the intersection of 6th and Market streets at 7 p.m.
PETA’s Senior Vice President, Kathy Guillermo, stated, “The National Institutes of Health pours billions of dollars into cruel and pointless animal experiments that benefit no one except the laboratories profiting from the funds. PETA calls on both candidates to redirect taxpayers’ money towards modern, human-centered research that spares animals.”
Americans for Contraception at the Independence Visitor Center
The iconic 20-foot IUD is returning to Philadelphia at 1 p.m. The event will feature State Rep. Leanne Krueger (D-Delaware County) and councilmembers Jamie Gauthier, Rue Landau, and Nina Ahmad in a rally advocating for contraceptive rights. Reproductive rights have emerged as a major topic of discussion in this election, with Harris supporting federal abortion protection and Trump favoring state-by-state legislation decisions.
The inflatable IUD, affectionately named Freeda Womb, made its previous appearance in the city in July during the Americans for Contraception’s IUD Express Tour.
Pennsylvania Immigrant and Citizenship Coalition at Walnut Street Bridge
This morning, a pro-immigration banner was hung on the Walnut Street Bridge above the Schuylkill River, demanding “End the ICE contracts! Shut Down Detention! #ShutDownEDC #ShutDownMoshannon #ShutDownClinton #ShutDownPike.”
The banner specifically references the Moshannon Detention Center and the Pike County and Clinton County correctional facilities in Pennsylvania, as well as the Elizabeth Detention Center (EDC) in New Jersey. Recent reports have unveiled inhumane living conditions at the Moshannon facility, which was established in 2021.