Tensions between ICE and locals hit a new peak this weekend as federal agents ramped up tear gas use, allegedly threatened to bring a “sh*t show” to west suburban Broadview and deployed armed agents downtown.
Why it matters: The escalating tactics are “terrorizing our communities” and making Chicagoans afraid to go to work and school, according to local leaders who gathered Sunday afternoon to speak out.
Catch up quick: Friday morning, hundreds who protested at the Broadview ICE facility to demand more transparency and better conditions there were tear gassed and pepper sprayed by federal agents.
- Friday morning, Axios observed demonstrators singing, chanting, yelling and allowing ICE vehicles to proceed. Subsequent reports, however, note at least three times demonstrators unsuccessfully tried to block ICE cars.
- Friday afternoon Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson issued a letter decrying ICE’s use of tear gas and its effect on local police, firefighters, residents and protesters.
- Saturday morning, Broadview officials said ICE agents verbally threatened to bring a “sh*t show” to the suburb. Saturday night ICE officers emerged from the facility and deployed tear gas, pepper projectiles and rubber bullets against about 75 protesters, journalists and lawyers.
- Sunday afternoon, dozens of armed Border Patrol agents marched through downtown Chicago, apprehending people including, what appeared to be a family in Millennium Park.
What they’re saying: “We will not bow to a wannabe dictator,” Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said at a Sunday afternoon press conference. “We will not back down. They want us to be silent. We will raise our voices and we will speak out against what’s happening.”…