The protestors camped out in Freedom Plaza are getting a dose of one of D.C.’s most beloved institutions. Ben’s Chili Bowl will be serving up its half-smokes and more for free on Tuesday evening to the occupiers at the plaza near the White House.
The protestors, who pitched tents in Freedom Plaza more than two weeks ago, open their dinner service to everyone. Dinner usually takes place around 7 p.m., after the group’s 6 p.m. general assembly. Related protestors in McPherson Square also open their food tent to all.
Typically, the food has come through daily donations, and at least at McPherson Square ‘s is prepared and cooked by actual chefs who are also protestors. The food tents have coolers for items that require refrigeration and camping stoves for cooking.
It’s illegal to camp on federal property without a permit, but the National Park Service is so far tolerating the groups. The campers at Freedom Plaza to have a permit to demonstrate there, but the permit does not include camping.
