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Transit leaders urged Illinois lawmakers to address a $202 million funding shortfall threatening the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra, and Pace. Without action, significant service cuts and layoffs could occur as soon as next summer, impacting thousands of workers and commuters.
Chicago school board members expressed urgent concerns over immigrant families living in fear due to increased federal immigration raids. They urged the district to consider virtual learning options for these students, emphasizing that the situation constitutes an emergency. District CEO Macquline King noted that attendance remains steady, but there are slight declines among Latino students and English learners.
Federal immigration agents detained individuals in Lakeview and Lincoln Park, using tear gas on residents who confronted them. This marked an escalation of enforcement actions in predominantly white neighborhoods after focusing on Latino-majority areas. Local officials expressed concern over the federal agents' tactics and the impact on community safety.
Pastor Marshall Hatch Jr. of the New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church in West Garfield Park was named to Time Magazine’s Time100 Next list for his social justice advocacy. He leads the MAAFA Redemption Project, which supports Black and Brown youth through education and community building initiatives. Hatch emphasizes his commitment to community empowerment, stating, “We’ve been the boots on the ground.”
Residents of a South Shore apartment building made over 3,000 distress calls to city services before a federal immigration raid on September 30, 2025. The building faced numerous complaints about deteriorating living conditions, including drug activity and structural issues. Following the raid, city officials have sought to clear the building due to its unsafe conditions.
Congressional Democrats visited Chicago to discuss immigration enforcement as masked federal agents detained individuals across the city. Some local officials left the meeting in protest of these actions. The event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policies in urban areas.
A shooting occurred early Sunday morning near Park Manor 75, a newly opened wine and charcuterie bar in Greater Grand Crossing, but officials confirmed it took place at a different establishment. Two victims were injured, with one in fair condition and the other in good condition. Community members expressed concern about public safety and the need for better crime prevention initiatives.
Chris Bauman purchased the historic Portage Theater in Chicago for $25,000 after it sat vacant for seven years. He plans to revitalize the theater into a community center offering diverse events, including concerts and film screenings, while addressing over $500,000 in back taxes.
Border Patrol chief Greg Bovino faces accusations of violating a federal judge’s order by deploying tear gas against a crowd in Chicago’s Little Village. Attorneys claim this action occurred without justification and contradicts a restraining order aimed at protecting protesters' rights. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between federal agents and local communities during immigration enforcement actions.
A development proposal for a vacant lot in Avondale aims to construct 24 townhomes and two five-story apartment buildings. The project, targeting families, seeks a zoning change to transform the 2.09-acre site from a manufacturing zone to residential use. If approved, the plan will include affordable housing options, addressing the local housing shortage.