Pritzker Administration Anticipates ICE Enforcement Actions During Chicago’s mexican Independence Day
CHICAGO - Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker’s administration is preparing for potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids surrounding Chicago’s annual Mexican Independence Day celebrations, officials confirmed Monday. The state is coordinating with community organizations to provide legal assistance and resources to residents concerned about increased immigration enforcement.
The anticipation of ICE activity comes as Chicago prepares for large-scale Independence Day festivities, traditionally marked by car caravans and street gatherings, particularly in the downtown area. These celebrations reflect the notable Mexican population in the city and Cook County,where more than 21% of Chicagoans identify as Mexican,according to U.S. Census data. Cook County holds the third-largest population of Mexican immigrants and Mexican Americans nationally, trailing only Los Angeles County, California, and Harris County, Texas.
The governor’s office stated it received information suggesting heightened ICE enforcement plans coinciding with the holiday,a period when many members of the Mexican community gather publicly to celebrate their heritage. While ICE has not publicly confirmed specific operations, the Pritzker administration is proactively working to ensure residents are aware of their rights and have access to legal support should they be targeted.
As the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Mexican Independence Day celebrations in Chicago have become increasingly concentrated in the downtown area, drawing larger crowds and necessitating street closures. This concentration, coupled with the potential for increased ICE activity, has raised concerns among community leaders and advocates.The state is directing individuals with questions or concerns about their immigration status to contact the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) and other legal aid organizations. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
