CHICAGO (AP) — Chicago has entered a tumultuous stage of the Trump administration's immigration enforcement, resulting in rising tensions and community unease as federal agents continue to arrest immigrants across the city.
Despite a recent shift in leadership among U.S. Border Patrol officials, the operation in Chicago — which has led to thousands of arrests — shows no signs of slowing. Activists, fearing a resurgence of more aggressive tactics, maintain a vigilant watch.
“I feel a sense of paranoia over when they might be back,” lamented Santani Silva, an employee in Pilsen, a neighborhood heavily populated by Mexican Americans. “People are still afraid.”
Ongoing Arrests Amidst Protests
For over two months, Chicago has been under an intense scrutiny, with federal agents — armed and unmarked — continuing operations that have sparked protests against their tactics. Area residents have reported heightened anxiety and resistance against federal immigration practices.
Brandon Lee, from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, stated, “It’s not over. I don’t think it will be over,” highlighting ongoing arrests despite the reduction in operational intensity.
Suburban Struggles
The suburb of Broadview, home to a federal immigration processing center, has been a significant focus of actions taken by immigration authorities, resulting in increased protests. Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson declared a civil emergency after facing bomb threats and violent protests, asserting, “I will not allow threats of violence or intimidation to disrupt the essential functions of our government.”
Questionable Tactics and Rising Lawsuits
As the number of arrests surpasses 3,000, there are concerns about the legitimacy of the arrests, with evidence suggesting that only a small percentage of those detained had serious criminal backgrounds. Lawsuits regarding the use of excessive force and detention conditions are on the rise, sparking debates about accountability within the federal immigration agencies.
Meanwhile, incidents of violence involving federal agents are under investigation, including the fatal shooting of a man during a traffic incident, which has drawn national scrutiny.
Effects on Local Communities
The once-bustling immigrant neighborhoods in Chicago are witnessing a hesitant return to business activity. Although some local vendors report an uptick in sales, many residents, regardless of their citizenship status, are grappling with fear of potential encounters with immigration officials.
As Andrea Melendez, a local business owner, reflects on her recent recovery in sales, other community members like Eleanor Lara, who carries her birth certificate for safety, continue to stay home out of fear. “We’re still sticking home,” she said, echoing the sentiments of many worried families.
