Agitation in Little Village as ICE agents apprehend a male, eliciting tears from his spouse and two minor offspring, in what seems to be a caught-on-camera event
In the heart of Chicago's vibrant Pilsen neighbourhood, a series of events unfolded just one day after the Mexican Independence Day parade. The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency arrested a man at the intersection of 24th and Albany during an operation called "Operation Midway Blitz," targeting undocumented immigrants, initiated by the Trump administration.
The man, who reportedly has a work visa and no criminal record, was detained along with his Venezuelan wife and two small children in their car. The family's current whereabouts and potential release on bond are being pursued by their attorney, while community organisations are providing legal representation for those who have been detained.
Baltazar Enriquez, President of the Little Village Community Council, witnessed the incident. He stated that the agents did not care about the man's legal status, and even people with legal status are fearful. Enriquez's organisation, Baltazar's, distributed "Know your rights" fliers and whistles, which were successful in deterring ICE from approaching two people in a car last week.
Robert Centeno, a bystander, stopped to help the distraught mother and children after the incident. Noemi Rivera, another witness, recorded a video inside the car showing an ICE agent telling them to open the door. Rivera mentioned that the agents did not present a warrant during the incident.
Community members are encouraged to call their organisations immediately if they witness ICE activity. The Southwest Side's 26th Street area has returned to normal following the Mexican Independence Day parade, but the arrest has sparked a sense of unease amongst neighbours.
Some Pilsen residents are celebrating El Grito on Monday night as a reminder of their right for freedom, dignity, and respect. Baltazar Enriquez stated that the event was a success despite the crowds not being as large as previous years. The community continues to rally together in the face of these challenging times, demonstrating resilience and unity.
Despite efforts to reach ICE for comment, ABC7's attempts were unsuccessful. The ICE arrest at 24th and Albany serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing immigration enforcement activities in the city.
