Broadview Police are currently investigating an alleged attack on a TV news reporter near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. According to reports, a chemical munition was fired in the direction of the reporter’s vehicle from the ICE facility, but the reporter declined medical attention. Broadview Police Chief Thomas Mills has stated that they are expecting full cooperation from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in their investigation.
This incident comes amidst heightened tensions in Chicago, particularly following an increased presence of federal immigration enforcement agents in the city. Over the weekend, multiple people were detained by federal agents in downtown Chicago, an operation linked to the Trump administration’s broader immigration enforcement agenda. This move has provoked significant public and political backlash, with lawmakers and community leaders expressing their opposition during a press conference on Sunday. Democratic Representative Jesus “Chuy” Garcia criticized the federal actions as discriminatory profiling, while Veronica Castro from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights described it as an unwelcome intrusion into the community.
Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the federal operations, characterizing them as a threat to public safety rather than a protective measure. Similarly, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker issued a statement denouncing the militarization of Chicago by federal agents, calling it unnecessary and fear-instilling.
The increasing federal presence has sparked protests, especially around the Broadview ICE facility. Demonstrators have gathered for several days, facing responses from federal agents such as the use of mace and pepper bullets. Despite the confrontations, the protests have continued with demonstrators seeking to raise awareness and protect their communities from what they view as intimidation tactics.
Among those affected by the federal operations are family members of individuals detained by ICE. Natalie Mirenda, for instance, joined the protests after witnessing her father’s detention, expressing the helplessness and lack of information faced by families.
In response to the actions in Chicago, various groups, including the Indivisible Chicago Alliance, have organized protests to amplify their opposition to the Trump administration’s policies. Protesters have fanned out across the city, engaging in efforts to mobilize voter turnout and challenge what they see as unjust enforcement.
The upcoming weeks are expected to see further organization and demonstrations, culminating in a planned large-scale protest in Grant Park on October 18. These efforts underscore the community’s solidarity and determination to advocate for their rights amidst federal immigration actions.