ICE Is Making War On Broadview And It Must Stop, Suburban Mayor Says

Protests outside the ICE facility in Broadview turned violent as federal agents used tear gas, pepper spray, and rubber bullets against demonstrators. Mayor Katrina Thompson criticized these aggressive tactics in a letter to Homeland Security, asserting they endanger the local community, including police and firefighters. She labeled the situation as a "war" on Broadview and demanded the removal of a fence that restricts access to the facility, calling it illegal and unsafe. Thompson highlighted that local responders are regularly exposed to tear gas, which forces them to temporarily withdraw from action. The protests escalated when federal agents shot rubber bullets, damaging property and injuring demonstrators.

Thompson's letter emphasized the urgent need for federal agents to reconsider their approach and promote community safety. As federal immigration enforcement operations continue, local organizers are stepping up to support those affected, including raising funds for individuals arrested by immigration agents. The situation reflects broader tensions regarding immigration enforcement in the Chicago area, where over 500 individuals have been detained recently.