400 Rogers Park Neighbors Rally After ICE Arrests 4, Including Tamale Vendor

In Rogers Park, four individuals, including tamale vendor Jose Flores, were arrested by ICE agents, sparking a rally of around 400 community members in support of those affected. Flores, who has operated his tamale stand for 37 years, reported a drastic decline in business since the announcement of Operation Midway Blitz last month. Protect RP, an organization responding to heightened immigration enforcement, has trained over 500 volunteers to monitor ICE activities and assist families at risk. Volunteers wear orange whistles and report sightings of federal agents, successfully forcing them to leave certain areas. The community's efforts included watch parties outside schools and churches to provide immediate support during ICE operations.

Local officials, including Ald. Maria Hadden, participated in the rally, emphasizing solidarity with vulnerable residents. The increased visibility and presence of volunteers have reportedly led to fewer targeting incidents by federal agents in the area. This situation reflects ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in Chicago.