Chicago Protestors March Against Increased ICE Operations
CHICAGO (CBS News) – Hundreds of protestors took to the streets of downtown Chicago Tuesday, demonstrating against recent Immigration adn Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations and President Donald Trump‘s immigration policies. The rally and march,organized by groups including the U.S. Palestinian Community network and the Immigrants’ Rights Working Commitee, aimed to both acknowledge the increased ICE presence in the city and educate immigrant communities about thier rights.
The exhibition comes as ICE has intensified enforcement efforts in Chicago,sparking fear and frustration among residents. While city officials report a decrease in crime, protestors argue the federal government’s actions are creating a climate of fear and tearing families apart. This protest followed a similar demonstration held on saturday, but organizers felt a renewed rally was necesary with ICE operations already underway.
“Before, there was only the looming threat of the federal government coming over here and carrying ICE raids. Now we’ve seen the actuality of it and we’ve seen families being torn apart,” said Omar Flores with the Immigrants’ Rights Working Committee.
The march began outside Grant Park and proceeded past Trump Tower, circling the Loop before returning down State Street and passing the ICE Chicago field office on Ida B Wells. Protestors voiced strong opposition to the President’s policies.
“I’m incensed by what the president of the United States is doing to our city and our country,” stated Nancy Green, a protest participant.
Organizers reported success in their “rapid response” efforts, providing facts about rights to those affected by the ICE operations. Husam Marajda, a member of the U.S. Palestinian Community Network, suggested the President’s actions are politically motivated. “He did the same thing in L.A. and D.C., but Chicago is different, and we’re going to hold it together and show a lot of resistance,” Marajda said.
Ana Guajardo with Workers Center emphasized the real-world impact of the operations, stating, “We have seen it in the Southeast Side of Chicago and the south suburbs.”
Organizers have pledged to continue holding rallies and marches as long as president Trump continues to target Chicago with increased enforcement.
