Protests Erupt Over Alleged Police Misconduct in Oak Lawn

On Tuesday, around 100 people gathered outside the Oak Lawn Village Hall in protest. They rallied against the alleged mistreatment of a 14-year-old by police during a previous Police and Fire Commission meeting. According to Oak Lawn police, the teen used offensive language during the public comment period on August 5, leading officers to escort him away. A woman interfered during this process.

The Arab American Action Network, however, presents a different account. They claim several officers physically handled the boy, slamming him into a counter and placing him in a chokehold before forcing him out of the meeting. The woman in question, charged with obstruction of justice, disorderly conduct, and assault, is the boy’s mother. Activists argue she was forcibly removed alongside her son.

Kobi Guillory, an activist and middle school teacher, spoke at the protest before the Oak Lawn Village Board meeting on August 25, 2026. The protests highlight ongoing concerns about police conduct and alleged racism within the Oak Lawn Police Department. This includes a previous incident where a 17-year-old was beaten by an officer, resulting in an $825,000 settlement by the village.

Activists and organizers from the Arab American Action Network have attended Police and Fire Commission meetings regularly since 2022, voicing their concerns about officer misconduct. Recent police statements claim activists have disrupted meetings, obstructing official business through actions like shouting obscenities, engaging in physical confrontations, and encouraging juveniles to participate. However, activists place the blame on police for increased tensions and emphasize their commitment to demanding justice and accountability.

“And so no, I’m not surprised that the Oak Lawn police just 20 days ago used an illegal chokehold against a small boy,” stated Muhammad Sankari, organizing director of the Arab American Action Network. “And you all shouldn’t be surprised that we’re going to continue to be here, again and again. Because you have made it very clear, and the Oak Lawn Police Department has made it very clear, that you are not interested in any kind of justice, you are not interested in any kind of accountability.”