Reaction Out Of Chicago: Somber, Surprise, 'Unbelievable'

Chicago’s surprising elimination from consideration for the 2016 Olympic Games is being met with shock in The Windy City, as the crowd that gathered at Daley Plaza to watch the voting “reacted…in silence.”

A collective shadow of sadness and shock fell over the crowd. “Wow,” people repeated. “Unbelievable.” “So sad.”

“This is just one collective hurt” said Henry McGee Jr, 52, and a small business owner who lives near Washington Park. “I’m really stunned. I thought it would be such a boom for the African-American community.”

Under the big top at Washington Park, contortionists and clowns warmed up before the Universoul Circus, which was hosting a viewing party near the proposed Olympic stadium.

A man in a Bears jacket made a slashing motion on his neck.

“It’s over,” he said.

“I’m shocked,” said Natalie McKnight, 29. “I thought with Barack being the chief spokesman, we were going to get it.”

Emotions will quickly change from shock to anger as Chicagoans look for someone to blame. First up: Michael Jordan, who did not participate in the city’s campaign. “Michael Jordan didn’t show up,” said Margaret Johnson of Chicago. “His city asked him for help and he turned his back on us.”