Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem visited Gary, Indiana, on Thursday, amid rising tensions surrounding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations. Her visit comes in response to Illinois Governor JB Pritzker’s recent call for a temporary halt to ICE activities over the Halloween weekend. Pritzker’s request aims to allow families and children to celebrate the holiday without fear, as increasing ICE enforcement has caused anxiety within communities, particularly among undocumented families.
Throughout the state, lawmakers are considering measures to restrict ICE operations at sensitive locations such as hospitals and schools. Governor Pritzker pointed to a troubling incident in Old Irving Park, where federal agents reportedly interrupted a children’s Halloween parade, deploying tear gas on residents. In a letter to Noem, he expressed his concerns for the safety of Illinois families during the holiday, urging for a pause in enforcement actions that could frighten children and their families.
In stark contrast, Secretary Noem affirmed that she does not plan to suspend Operation Midway Blitz, a major initiative aimed at targeting undocumented immigrants considered “criminals.” She criticized Pritzker’s appeal as misguided, arguing that the work of DHS is crucial in maintaining community safety by apprehending dangerous individuals. “We’re absolutely not willing to put on pause any work that we will do to keep communities safe,” Noem stated.
Local community leaders in neighborhoods like Little Village have mobilized volunteers to ensure that children can enjoy Halloween safely. Over 170 volunteers have been trained to respond to any federal actions, with community organizer Baltazar Enriquez noting that families are fearful and hesitant to let their children participate in traditional celebrations. Volunteers aim to restore a sense of security so families can enjoy their time together during the holiday.
The visit also included comments from other officials, such as Indiana Governor Mike Braun, who supported Noem’s efforts in the ongoing operation. Noem highlighted the alleged dangers of illegal immigrants operating vehicles, although reports indicated that undocumented individuals are not permitted to obtain commercial driver’s licenses in Illinois.
Noem’s comments and policies have met resistance from local leaders like Gary’s Mayor Eddie Melton and Hammond’s Mayor Thomas McDermott, who criticized both the approach to enforcement and the unannounced nature of her visit. Protests occurred in Gary as community members expressed dissent regarding the administration’s tactics.
Amid these developments, Illinois lawmakers are fast-tracking legislation aimed at safeguarding individuals from aggressive immigration enforcement, ensuring that vulnerable communities are protected within safe spaces. One proposed bill would allow individuals whose rights have been violated during ICE actions to seek legal remedies, amidst a backdrop of increasing scrutiny of immigration practices, particularly following viral incidents involving arrests in sensitive locations.
As the Halloween weekend approaches, both sides of the debate remain entrenched in their positions, revealing a profound divide on immigration policies and the enforcement of federal laws.