US residents detained in an ICE operation in Elgin prominently featured on Noem's social media accounts, as captured in a video
In a move that has sparked protests and calls for transparency, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) launched operation "Midway Blitz" on Tuesday, targeting the Chicagoland area and suburbs, including parts of Illinois and Lake County, Indiana.
The operation, which focused on the arrest of undocumented immigrants, was one of several detainments made in the area on Tuesday. However, immigration advocates have called for an immediate end to these ongoing detentions, struggling to keep track of the number of people picked up by federal agents.
Protests were held in Melrose Park and Chicago, with protesters flying flags of various Latin American countries. The demonstrators rejected claims made by immigration officials about arresting undocumented criminals around the city and suburbs.
One of the most contentious issues arising from the operation is the death of Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez, who was killed by an ICE agent following a traffic stop in Franklin Park last week. His death is being called for transparency, with Marien Casillas Pabellón with the West Suburban Action Project stating that ICE does not want to release information about Villegas-Gonzalez's death because it doesn't help their narrative.
The operation saw agents in camouflage uniforms and military helicopters circling above at about 5:30 a.m. Agents were also seen breaking down the front door of a home and taking four people into custody, two of whom were later revealed to be U.S. citizens and were released shortly afterward.
Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem arrived in force in Elgin, Illinois on Tuesday morning. Illinois Congresswoman Lauren Underwood stated that according to a recent briefing from ICE, some 250 people from the Chicago area have been taken into custody since Sept. 6.
The operation has also raised concerns among local lawmakers. Deputy Majority Leader and Illinois state Rep. Lisa Hernandez expressed concern about the Supreme Court's ruling on racial profiling. Brandon Lee with the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights reported multiple ICE operations in West Chicago and Elgin, and continued calls from various suburban and city areas.
Nancy Salgado with the West Suburban Action Project expressed fear about celebrating Independence Day in the U.S. due to increased targeting of immigrants. The group of Latino leaders gathered at Daley Plaza to deliver an urgent message, asking undocumented residents and vulnerable individuals to stay home and know their rights.
The operation, which includes law enforcement from ICE, U.S. Marshalls, the DEA, and the ATF, has sparked a wave of protests and calls for transparency and accountability. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this operation will impact the lives of those affected and the broader immigrant community in the Chicagoland area.
