The Chicago City Council voted down a proposal that would have permitted local law enforcement to assist ICE in detaining migrants with criminal records, upholding the city's 'welcoming city' status.
The Chicago City Council decisively rejected a proposal on Wednesday that would have allowed local law enforcement to collaborate with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in detaining migrants with criminal records. This move effectively preserved Chicago's status as a 'welcoming city,' upholding the 2017 Illinois Trust Act which prohibits local police from participating in federal immigration enforcement. The proposed amendment, championed by Ald.
Ray Lopez and Silvana Tabares, aimed to permit police to cooperate with ICE in targeting migrants arrested for gang-related activities, drug offenses, or sexual crimes involving minors. The amendment faced fierce opposition from activist groups since its introduction in 2023, culminating in a 39-11 vote against its adoption. The debate surrounding immigration has intensified in Chicago as the city grapples with a surge in migrants over recent years. Many residents express frustration with city officials, particularly Mayor Brandon Johnson, and his handling of the situation. During the city council meeting, a resident confronted Johnson, questioning his loyalty and accusing the 'sanctuary law' of attracting criminals, drug dealers, and even terrorists. This tension coincides with the upcoming presidential transition, as Mayor Johnson issued new guidelines last week advising city officials on how to interact with ICE agents, should they enter city property. These guidelines emphasize contacting legal counsel, demanding warrants, and refraining from consenting to ICE entering 'private or 'sensitive' locations' while discouraging any interference with searches.Lopez, however, criticized Johnson's actions, characterizing his efforts to block the amendment as an 'extraordinary effort' to prevent the removal of criminal migrants. He asserted that the mayor's narrative, portraying the amendment as targeting all migrants, is inaccurate. The incoming border czar under the incoming administration, Tom Homan, has vowed to pursue strict enforcement measures against sanctuary cities like Chicago, emphasizing the verification of asylum seekers' status and the apprehension of those providing sanctuary to undocumented immigrants. Homan has also warned that Mayor Johnson could face prosecution if he obstructs ICE's mass deportation efforts. Despite the decisive vote against the amendment, the debate over immigration enforcement and sanctuary city policies is likely to continue in Chicago and across the nation
IMMIGRATION CHICAGO ICE SANCTUARY CITY LAW ENFORCEMENT BORDER CONTROL MAYOR JOHNSON RAY LOPEZ SILVANA TABARES
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