CHICAGO (WLS) — On Thursday, a public forum was held to discuss the interactions between the Chicago Police Department and federal immigration officials, giving residents an opportunity to voice their concerns.
The Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability organized the event, which took place both in person at Thalia Hall in Pilsen and online, providing a platform for a broader audience.
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Throughout the meeting, criticism was directed not only at federal authorities and the CPD but also at the civilian commission itself. Attendees expressed frustration with what they perceived as a lack of accountability for the actions of the Chicago Police.
The public aired their grievances specifically about CPD’s involvement with ICE operations, with many speakers passionately challenging the police department’s activities in these contexts.
Despite Chicago’s Welcoming City Ordinance, which bars the CPD from participating in immigration enforcement, there were questions raised about the police’s role in managing protesters during federal operations. Instances cited included events at a South Loop facility in June and a shooting incident involving ICE in Brighton Park in October.
Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez urged collaboration, stating, “That’s why we need you to work with us to hold the Chicago Police Department Superintendent accountable.” This call to action highlighted the ongoing demand for transparency and responsibility within the community.
CPD radio communications in December appeared to capture an officer talking about a traffic stop of someone allegedly following agents.
That same day, Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino thanked CPD and Evanston police for their help during operations.
“I myself have seen CPD officers hugging ICE and Border Patrol,” said Kayla Nguyen with the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression.
CPD says all requests for help from an immigration agency are handled by a supervisor, adding CPD “will not assist or intervene in civil immigration enforcement… If the request is unrelated to civil immigration law… appropriate police action will be taken.”
“This commission has not determined, investigated, or voted upon any position on these issues,” CCPSA Commissioner Sandra Wortham said.
The commission is planning to continue the discussion at another hearing next month and is working on securing a panel that includes CPD representatives.
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