Your trusted source for local Chicago, IL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Border Control chief Greg Bovino told agents in Los Angeles, “It’s our f—ing city,” while encouraging aggressive arrests during a body-camera recording. The footage emerged amid a lawsuit that limits federal immigration enforcement's use of force in the Chicago area. U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis has extended restrictions on immigration agents, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Immigration attorneys challenge the warrantless arrest of daycare teacher Diana Patricia Santillana Galeano in North Center, claiming it violates a 2022 consent decree. Santillana Galeano, who fled Colombia for safety, was detained by ICE agents without a warrant while at work. Her attorneys seek her immediate release or a bond hearing in federal court.
A Cook County judge ordered the evacuation of a dangerous South Shore apartment building following a federal raid, appointing a receiver to secure the property. Judge Debra Seaton cited ongoing hazards, including exposed electrical wiring and plumbing issues, despite previous management efforts to address safety concerns. The ruling affects around 37 remaining tenants and 10 squatters in the 130-unit building.
Attendance at Mather High School in Chicago dropped by 4 percentage points amid fears surrounding Operation Midway Blitz, the Trump administration's immigration enforcement campaign. Many students are avoiding school due to concerns about ICE agents, with similar trends observed in immigrant communities across the city. CPS officials report that attendance rates among English language learners also fell during the first nine weeks of the school year.
A federal judge has ordered immigration authorities in Chicago to limit their use of force against peaceful protesters and journalists, extending a previous temporary restraining order. U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis criticized the Trump administration's portrayal of the city as violent, calling it "untrue" and "not credible." The ruling follows a lawsuit aimed at protecting First Amendment rights amid ongoing immigration enforcement actions.
Federal immigration agents have been seen forcibly removing individuals from Chicago businesses, prompting some establishments to implement strict safety measures, such as locking doors and displaying signs against ICE presence. Legal complexities govern the rights of these agents to enter private spaces, requiring warrants for certain areas while allowing access to public spaces. Mayor Brandon Johnson supports businesses by providing "no trespassing" signs to deter federal agents.
Southwest Side business owners face financial hardship as immigration enforcement operations deter customers and employees. With decreased foot traffic and revenue, some owners report conditions worse than during the pandemic. Local advocacy groups are providing support and training to help businesses navigate these challenges.
Chicago hosts multiple festivals this weekend, including the 312 Comedy Festival and the 31st annual Black Harvest Film Festival. Events span from film and music to food, featuring local talent and community activities. Highlights include a tree lighting ceremony at the Museum of Science and Industry and Andersonville's Autumn Restaurant Week.
Emanuel Congregation in Edgewater plans to redevelop its lakefront campus, potentially adding apartment towers to fund a new synagogue. Developer Fern Hill proposes various residential options, including buildings on or adjacent to the synagogue site. Community engagement will guide the final design and zoning changes are required for the project.
Federal agents detained a teacher at Rayito de Sol daycare in Chicago, causing distress among parents and staff. The incident, which occurred in front of children, has sparked outrage and led to a community effort to secure the teacher's legal representation. Local officials dispute the federal claims regarding the teacher's immigration status.