CHICAGO () — President Donald Trump’s move to lift a temporary pause on ICE-related traffic stops has sparked anger and renewed resolve among some Chicago residents, who gathered in Little Village for a candlelight vigil after two deadly shootings tied to immigration enforcement operations.
The gathering honored Johan Sebastian Guerrero and Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, two men who were fatally shot during separate encounters with immigration authorities.
“Behind every headline there is a human being, a family, and a community that’s forever changed,” said Marcela Rodriguez, executive director of Enlace Chicago.
Guerrero was shot and killed in Maine during an immigration enforcement operation.
His death came less than a week after Salgado Araujo was killed by agents in Houston.
During the vigil, community speakers called on residents to turn grief and frustration into organized action.
“I urge you in this time of frustration and sadness that we all feel that you get organized to defend our communities,” said Gio Araugo of the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression.
Both men were shot while in their vehicles during traffic stops. In response to the incidents, the Department of Homeland Security had temporarily suspended most vehicle stops by ICE.
“Until questions are answered about both of these shootings … it makes sense to have a halt in this technique,” U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, said.
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Trump later reversed the pause, writing on social media that “…we CANNOT give up one of I.C.E.’s most important and effective Crime Fighting tools, THE TRAFFIC STOP!”
Community leaders in Little Village said they remain focused on supporting residents and promoting unity.
“I don’t know if he’s really hateful against our community, but you fight hate with love,” said Baltazar Enriquez, president of the Little Village Community Council.
The afternoon vigil near the Little Village arch included prayers for people targeted by ICE. Organizers also emphasized solidarity within the neighborhood.
“Our community does such a great job of organizing, that they know, even if we’re under attack, the entire community comes out for each other,” said Chela Garcia, head organizer for the Little Village Community Council.
Organizers also distributed alert whistles and encouraged neighbors to use them if they see ICE in the community.
