On July 10th,1966 more than 30,000 supporters in a 98-degree heatwave filled the stands and field of the historic stadium for what came to be known as Freedom Sunday. This rally would be the keynote rally to begin the Chicago Freedom Movement. King and Raby both spoke powerfully on the injustices of the housing industry in the North. Hattie Williams, who was involved early on with the campaign for equal education, attended the rally noting, “I remember that Dr. King as usual, had that charisma, and he gave a speech. He explained his presence in Chicago, why he was here. And I noticed--the reason I guess that I participated, even at that small level, is I noticed such hostility coming from unlikely places, such as outstanding civic leaders and politicians.” Following the speeches, Chicago Freedom Movement leaders and supporters made their way downtown to post demands on the door of City Hall.
Here on N. LaSalle Street, King posted the list of demands the Movement wished to see addressed as it related to making Chicago an open city.
Some examples of demands were:
BANKS AND SAVINGS INSTITUTIONS: Public statements of a nondiscriminatory mortgage policy so that loans will be available to any qualified borrower without regard to the racial composition of the area.
CHICAGO HOUSING AUTHORITY AND THE CHICAGO DWELLING ASSOCIATION 1. Program to rehabilitate present public housing including such items as locked lobbies, restrooms in recreation areas, increased police protection, and child care centers on every third floor. 2. Program to increase vastly the supply of low-cost housing on a scattered basis for both low and middle-income families.