Chicago’s Cultural Center is facing pressure to censor an art installation that highlights the U.S. and Israel’s role in the ongoing violence in Gaza. Twenty-seven alderpeople have called for the immediate removal of the piece, US-Israel War Machine, despite its clear role as protest art—a longstanding tradition in social justice movements.

This is not just about one artwork. It is about protecting freedom of speech and the right to dissent. The Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events has already altered the display by removing its title and death count, replacing it with a “sensitive content” warning. This sets a dangerous precedent for silencing marginalized voices and erasing narratives of protestors who are standing up for human rights and defending the dehumanization of the Palestinian people.

READ MORE: Chicago Cultural Center art installation sparks fierce debate