In Chicago, a strong message was sent on Sunday in Pilsen. Despite the cold weather, many people gathered to express their opposition to President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed mass deportation plan for migrants. The residents of Chicago made it clear that such a plan is not welcome in their city.
The attendees of the protest expressed their intention to convey a message not only to Mr. Trump but also to local leaders.
The incoming Trump administration has made it clear that Chicago will be the focal point for its efforts to carry out raids and deportations of undocumented immigrants. On Sunday, over 50 organizations came together at 18th Street and Blue Island Avenue to send a resolute message that they will not stand for such actions.
Elias Cepeda of Pilsen Defense and Access expressed that the prevailing stereotypes and fear-based narratives do not align with the actual reality.
Police sources have recently provided supervisors with a special-order advisory on how to handle incidents related to citizenship status.
The CPD advisory, based on Chicago’s Welcoming City ordinance aimed at safeguarding undocumented immigrants, reflects the Illinois TRUST Act. This state law bars law enforcement from collaborating with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials.
The police are prohibited from collecting or sharing information about someone’s immigration status.
Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th) pointed out that the memo from the Chicago Police Department also states that it is unconstitutional.
Critics argue that the Welcoming City ordinance in Chicago restricts law enforcement officers from fulfilling their oath by limiting their actions and decision-making abilities.
Alderman Ray Lopez (15th) has announced his intention to propose a vote on Wednesday for an ordinance that aims to reinstate four exemptions. These exemptions would enable the collaboration between the police and federal immigration authorities in cases involving individuals who have been arrested or convicted.
Sigcho-Lopez criticized Lopez for his position.
Sigcho-Lopez, a Latino elected official, expressed his disapproval of lending ears to Project 2025 by stating, “He should be ashamed of it when we see what is really behind it.”
An exemption has been introduced to permit arrests for gang-related activities, which may include but are not limited to loitering, intimidation, and recruitment.
An activist voiced their strong opposition to the proposed amendment to the Welcoming City Ordinance, condemning it as a racist assault on our immigrant coworkers, families, and neighbors. This statement was made during the rally held on Sunday.
Protesters are anticipated to attend the upcoming Chicago City Council meeting on Wednesday.
Shardaa Gray, a Multimedia Reporter for CBS 2 Chicago, joined the team in December 2021. Born and raised in the south suburbs, she is thrilled to be back home reporting on her community.