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Chicago residents prepare for the deployment of federal agents as the Trump administration plans to increase federal presence in the city. Block Club reporters document local reactions and protests surrounding these developments. The situation unfolds amid ongoing community concerns over federal intervention.
Chicago lawyer Rachel Cohen utilizes TikTok to mobilize community action against ICE, following her arrest during a protest outside an immigration detention facility. She emphasizes the urgency of supporting immigrant rights as the city anticipates aggressive immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. Cohen's activism stems from her resignation from a corporate law firm in protest against Trump's policies.
The Cortland Street bridge in Chicago will close to car traffic on September 22 for restoration, remaining closed until 2027. The project includes structural updates and rehabilitation of the bridge house, marking the first major work since a repair project concluded in 2015.
Prosper Skate Shop in West Lawn announced its closure after 14 years of serving the Southwest Side skateboarding community, citing financial struggles and debts. Co-owner Neen stated that the store has not turned a profit for a year, leaving them unable to pay bills or restock inventory. Local skateboarders will now have to seek gear elsewhere, marking a significant loss for the community.
Blacks in Green plans to purchase four city-owned lots in Woodlawn to develop apartments and small businesses while enhancing local gardens. The $11.15 million mixed-use project will include 20 apartments, with some designated as affordable housing, alongside community gardens and a sculpture garden honoring Emmett Till. A community meeting is scheduled to discuss the proposal further.
Vase and Vessel, a plant and pottery store in Andersonville, will close on September 21 after three years of operation. Owners Adam Kruse and Bill Dlugokienski cited rising inventory costs and decreased consumer spending as reasons for the closure. A storewide sale will take place until the final day of business.
President Donald Trump’s administration plans to deploy hundreds of immigration agents to Chicago for an immigration “blitz” starting this weekend. Local authorities express concerns over the federal government's lack of communication and the potential targeting of events like Mexican Independence Day celebrations. Immigration justice organizations are mobilizing to educate communities on their rights in response to the anticipated operations.
President Trump inaccurately labeled Chicago as the "murder capital of the world," despite data showing a decrease in violent crime. Experts argue that enhancing social safety net and violence prevention programs is more effective than deploying National Guard troops. Chicago's homicide rate is lower than many other U.S. cities, with a 31% drop in murders this year compared to last.
Avondale will host a free harvest moon walk on Sunday to celebrate its riverfront's history and foster community connections. Local historian Dan Pogorzelski will lead the tour, emphasizing the area's industrial heritage and the importance of the riverfront. Participants can RSVP on Facebook for the event, which begins at Burning Bush Brewery.
Lee Kirk's new play, "Ashland Avenue," opens at the Goodman Theatre in Chicago, inspired by his fond memories of the city. Featuring Jenna Fischer, the play explores the challenges of leaving home to pursue dreams, set against the backdrop of a fictional video store. The production has been extended through October 12.