Latest News in Chicago, IL

Your Rights When It Comes To ICE How To Protect Yourself, Your Neighbors As Federal Agents Arrive

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.

Vase And Vessel, Andersonville Plant And Pottery Store, Closing After 3 Years

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.

This Week In Photos City Protests Trumps Plans, Exploring The Lake With A Famed Diver And More

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.

Prosper Skate Shop, A Haven For Southwest Side Skaters, Closing After 14 Years

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.

Harvest Moon Walk Aims To Shine A Light On Avondales Forgotten Riverfront History

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.

Walter Redmond Burnett Appointed To Replace His Father As 27th Ward Alderman

Mayor Brandon Johnson appointed Walter Redmond Burnett as the new 27th Ward alderman, filling the vacancy left by his father’s resignation. Burnett aims to address community challenges and enhance local engagement, pending City Council confirmation on September 25.

Robust Coffee Lounge In Hot Water Again For Employee Berating Man Being Given Food By Customer

A South Side alderperson reported Robust Coffee House for mistreating unhoused individuals, alleging that staff berated a man receiving food from another customer. Complaints about the café's treatment of community members, particularly in the majority-Black Woodlawn area, have been ongoing since at least 2019. Ald. Jeanette Taylor stated that accountability is essential for how people are treated, regardless of their circumstances.

Cortland Street Bridge Closing This Month Until 2027 For Restoration

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.

Third City Art Studio Opening In Austin, 1st In Project To Transform North Avenue Into Arts District

Third City Studio and Third City Cafe will open in Austin as part of a project to transform North Avenue into an arts district. The studio, set to debut on October 17, aims to highlight local artists and offer various community programs, while the cafe will provide a space for social events and networking in early 2026.

Come With Me To Get Arrested This Chicago Lawyer Wants To Help You Fight Back Against ICE

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.