ICE Raids in Chicago Spark Fear and Raise Questions

On Wednesday, multiple Chicago residents were detained by ICE after being lured to what they believed were routine immigration check-ins in the South Loop. Instead, they were arrested. These types of raids, which are increasing in occurrence all across the country, have intensified an already palpable fear in the community.  

How it happened

Individuals received texts instructing them to appear for ISAP (Intensive Supervision Appearance Program) appointments, only to be taken into custody shortly after arrival. Local elected officials and organizers who showed up to protest were met with unmarked vans, unanswered questions, and, in some cases, physical escalation. Chicago Aldermen Anthony Quezada, as well as Rossana Rodriguez Sanchez, were not only in attendance but reported to be sitting on the ground to block an ICE van. Protesters were heard chanting “shame” as federal agents drove away.

ICE claims the individuals had final removal orders. But if that’s true, why the deception? Why the need for tricks and traps?

This is clearly coercion. To call it anything else is a slap in the face to our legal system.  

Was this legal?

Chicago is a sanctuary city. Under the Illinois Trust Act, local and state police are generally not allowed to assist federal immigration agents, yet Chicago police were reported on the scene. And ICE continues to act with unchecked authority, eroding trust in institutions and targeting the very people working to comply with their cases.

The fear spreads fast. When appointments become traps, how can immigrant communities feel safe engaging with the system?

Here’s what you can do:

1. Know your rights
   Make sure you and your loved ones are informed. Our Know Your Rights resources include step-by-step guides and emergency planning tips.

2. Understand warrants
   ICE cannot enter your home without a judicial warrant. Check out this video on how to recognize a real warrant.

3. Get help or share tips
   If you or someone you know is impacted by these raids, contact us or reach out to an experienced immigration attorney. We are ready to support you.

Community matters. Protect your neighbors. Spread the word. Show up. Speak out. The more people who know their rights, the harder it becomes for ICE to strip them away. No one should be detained under false pretenses. No one should be taken without warning.

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