Protesters once again assembled on Friday at an ICE processing center in Illinois, where tensions continue to rise between activists and federal immigration authorities.
The facility, located in the small Chicago suburb of Broadview, faces allegations of inhumane practices and operating as a de facto detention center.
These demonstrations have led to confrontations at the center, coinciding with the Trump administration’s “Operation Midway Blitz” in Illinois. Since the operation began in early September, over 400 individuals have been arrested.
Protester Daniel Shouse told local affiliate WGN that a car carrying three federal immigration officers drove over a curb to hit him on Wednesday.
Shouse expressed frustration, saying, “There’s no accountability. Officers approached me in the hospital asking if I could identify anyone in a lineup. How is that possible when they’re all masked and without name tags?”
The truck reportedly continued driving toward the ICE facility’s parking lot, witnesses told Broadview police.
Previously, officers resorted to using tear gas and pepper balls on protesters outside the building’s gates. An ICE representative mentioned that demonstrators had slashed tires of federal vehicles and blocked paths, leading to the use of these measures.
In Illinois, officials have endorsed “sanctuary city” policies, especially around Chicago, to prevent local authorities from aiding federal immigration efforts.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has recently issued two executive orders to protect the rights of city protesters, while Governor JB Pritzker has criticized the federal administration’s “terrible plans” for the state.
‘s Anna Kutz contributed to this report.
