CHICAGO (WLS) — Protesters gathered Friday outside the Broadview ICE facility.
There were no arrests, but there were some tense moments between federal agents and demonstrators.
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In the early hours, federal officers clad in military attire removed demonstrators from a sit-in at the ICE processing center located in the western suburb of Broadview. This action cleared the way for a transport van, reportedly carrying undocumented immigrant detainees, to proceed to another location. “We believe that Broadview residents need to understand they hold the power to say ‘this is not welcome’ in their community,” stated protest organizer Akeisha Lee.
This early morning protest is part of a continuing effort by immigration activists to interrupt U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s operations.
“I find it unjust how these individuals are taken without being afforded due process,” protester Randy Vandenbos remarked. “It felt necessary for someone to take a stand.”
According to organizers, their 12-hour grassroots protest coincides with the Trump Administration’s decision to deploy the National Guard to Memphis rather than Chicago.
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In the meantime, officials are preparing to increase federal immigration enforcement through ‘Operation Midway Blitz,’ targeting undocumented individuals with criminal charges.
“I believe that Jesus essentially said love, unconditional love and so I know there’s a better way,” protester Leslie Ritter-Jenkins said.
With signs in hand and chanting, last week, the group was successful in turning an ICE vehicle away as it tried to enter the facility.
Broadview mayor confirmed the Beach Street site is slated to be the main processing center for expanded ICE operations in the Chicago area.
While a faith leader coalition prayed for peace and non-violence, another local resident voiced support for President Trump’s plan for widespread deportations.
“I think a country should, a country is not a country without strong borders, so I would say I stand by law and order,” counter-protester Shawn Campbell said.
Friday’s protest is scheduled to last until 7 p.m. The protesters said they want to send a clear message to the Trump administration that this facility isn’t wanted here.
With protests expected to continue, organizers in Little Village are turning their attention to this weekend’s Mexican Independence Day Parade while also keeping an eye on ICE operations.
Immigrant rights groups and community leaders gathered Thursday to inform residents of their rights and share resources. They said since ICE activity started in the area, calls to hotlines have spiked and many families are on edge.
The Parade is Sunday at noon along 26th street in Little Village.
Organizers said rapid response team members and attorneys will be on hand to support the community.
DHS says its targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records in Chicago.
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