Exclusive: Northeastern Illinois University Instructor Linked to Antifa, Defended Armed Protester
CHICAGO – A Northeastern Illinois University instructor with a background in journalism and a history of politically engaged writing publicly offered support – and a challenge – to those targeting a mixed martial artist reportedly training with Antifa, sparking scrutiny of his own affiliations and activities. Elias Cepeda, who taught a course on critical journalism at the university in 2020, has also been identified as a volunteer with Pilsen Defense and Access, a nonprofit offering self-defense training.
Cepeda’s public statements came in response to a post by independent journalist Andy Ngo regarding the mixed martial artist.”That’s right, and I’m damned proud to train her. You cowards coming for her can come for me as well. I’m easy to find,” Cepeda wrote on X, formerly Twitter.
A bio on the Northeastern Illinois University website describes Cepeda as “an experience journalist” covering sports, restaurant reviews, and “writing politically engaged essays.” The university noted he created and taught an online summer course, ENGL 374J: Critical Journalism, focusing on the role and politics of the fourth estate. He is currently seeking a PhD program.
ABC7 Chicago reported that Cepeda was shot in the face with a less-than-lethal round during his detention following a protest at an ICE Broadview facility last month. His mother, Leila Mendez, told ABC7 her son has a concealed carry permit but “did not come to use it,” noting his hands were raised in the air during the incident.
Cepeda has also shared social media posts critical of federal immigration authorities.
The incident comes after a Chicago grand jury earlier this week refused to indict Ray Collins, 31, and Jocelyn Robledo, 30, an engaged couple arrested for allegedly assaulting federal agents while carrying loaded weapons at the same ICE Broadview facility. The reasons for the grand jury’s decision remain unclear, leading to the dismissal of federal charges against the pair.
Requests for comment from Cepeda, Pilsen Defense and Access, and Northeastern Illinois University were not promptly returned.
