Chicago ICE Operations Lead to Multiple Detentions Downtown Amid Protests in Chicago and Broadview
Federal Immigration Agents Conduct Operations in Chicago Amid Community Backlash
Immigration Enforcement Sparked in Downtown Chicago
CHICAGO — A significant presence of federal immigration agents was recorded in downtown Chicago over the weekend, resulting in the detention of multiple individuals. Notably, an incident near Millennium Park involved Border Patrol agents detaining a family, which included a woman and several children. Another apprehension reportedly took place in River North, outside Catholic Charities, involving agents targeting another individual. The presence of federal patrols was visible along the Chicago River, with agents on both foot and boats.
Community Leaders and Lawmakers Respond
The escalation prompted a press conference by local lawmakers and community leaders, who voiced strong opposition to the federal actions. Democratic Representative Jesus “Chuy” Garcia criticized the operations, describing them as profiling, while Veronica Castro, Deputy Director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, expressed determination to protect against intimidation tactics.
Federal Intent to Maintain Law and Order
The Department of Homeland Security reiterated its commitment to enforcing law and order, emphasizing on social media the intent to persist in operations until all suspected criminals are apprehended. Meanwhile, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the federal presence, labeling it as militarization that instills fear rather than enhances safety.
Governor Pritzker’s Statement on Military-Style Tactics
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker also criticized the federal enforcement methods, urging residents to remain vigilant and aware of their rights. Pritzker highlighted the deployment of federal agents in downtown Chicago as an instrument of fear and urged against normalizing such approaches.
Incident at Broadview ICE Facility Under Investigation
In another development, Broadview police are investigating an alleged attack on a CBS TV news reporter near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility. The officers described receiving reports of a chemical munition fired at the reporter’s vehicle, attributing the source to the direction of the ICE facility. The investigation is ongoing with expected cooperation from DHS.
Protests Follow Escalation at Broadview
Demonstrations continued at the Broadview ICE facility, with protesters facing federal agents’ responses, including the use of mace and pepper bullets. Although tensions were high, the protests remained largely non-confrontational, as participants steadied their resolve to oppose federal operations in the area.
Impact of Federal Actions on Families
Protesters include family members affected by ICE detentions. Natalie Mirenda, whose father was detained earlier in Downers Grove, expressed her family’s distress and their limited information from ICE officials regarding his status. The community continues to rally for those impacted by the detentions.
City-Wide Actions Against Federal Operations
The Indivisible Chicago Alliance organized city-wide actions to protest federal operations and promote civic involvement. Residents across the city joined in to voice their opposition to the federal approach and underscore the importance of participating in upcoming elections.
Preparing for Large-Scale Protests
Community mobilization efforts are poised to culminate in a significant protest scheduled in Grant Park, aimed at sustaining opposition to federal operations. This event is expected to draw large crowds as community members continue to push for a peaceful expression of their dissatisfaction.
