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Federal agents deployed tear gas on Chicago residents for the fourth consecutive day Saturday, disrupting a Halloween parade in Old Irving Park. Three individuals, including two U.S. citizens, were arrested during the incidents, which witnesses described as chaotic and unnecessary. Homeland Security officials defended the actions, citing a significant increase in assaults on law enforcement.
A federal judge ordered a bond hearing for Ruben Torres Maldonado, an ICE detainee, after ruling his detention violated the Immigration and Nationality Act. Torres Maldonado's arrest occurred one day after his daughter, Ofelia, was released from chemotherapy treatment for cancer. His attorney described the family's separation as inhumane and unjust.
Hundreds of demonstrators marched in Little Village on Saturday, demanding an end to federal immigration enforcement actions following two standoffs with agents. The protest featured speeches condemning Operation Midway Blitz and highlighted the fears faced by immigrant families in the area. Activists expressed solidarity with neighbors and condemned the use of tear gas against protesters.
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.”
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.
Federal agents conducted random stops in Wicker Park and West Town on Friday, detaining at least two individuals. These actions appeared inconsistent with the stated goals of Operation Midway Blitz, aimed at targeting serious criminal undocumented immigrants. Witnesses expressed confusion and frustration over the agents' methods.
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.
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.
The New Theatre Project is staging the play "Blackbird" in a Bowmanville factory, featuring a companion art exhibition by photographer George Hudson. The production, which explores complex themes of past trauma and relationships, runs from October 24 to November 16, with ticket prices set at $45. Hudson's exhibition, "Ghosts," opens on October 27 and runs through the weekend.
Federal immigration agents detained individuals in Chicago, causing unrest in residential areas. Block Club reporters documented the situation, including the use of tear gas. The events have raised concerns about local immigration enforcement practices.