Dead Rat, Note Calling Immigrants Vermin Left Outside Ald. Vasquezs Lincoln Square Office
A dead rat and a note referring to immigrants as “vermin” were found outside Ald. Andre Vasquez's Lincoln Square office on Sunday night. Police responded to the report around 7:30 p. m. and confirmed the note contained derogatory statements taped to the office door.
Vasquez, an advocate for immigrant rights and chair of the Committee on Immigrant and Refugee Rights, stated that threats like these are taken seriously and his office will continue to serve the community. The investigation is ongoing, but police have not clarified if it is considered a hate crime. Vasquez has been vocal against the Trump administration’s immigration policies and has promoted “know your rights” initiatives. This incident comes amid heightened tensions due to recent immigration enforcement efforts, which have created fear in immigrant communities. Over the weekend, he and his staff encouraged participation in the Mexican Independence Day Parade to show solidarity.
The event highlights the ongoing challenges faced by immigrants in Chicago.