The Trump administration is preparing to carry out a large-scale immigration raid in the sanctuary city of Chicago next week. According to The Wall Street Journal, the operation will begin on Tuesday morning, a day after President-Elect Donald Trump is inaugurated, and will last all week. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will send between 100 and 200 officers to conduct the raids.
President Trump’s Border Czar, Tom Homan, has emphasized the administration’s focus on deporting criminal aliens. Last month, Homan spoke to a crowd in Chicago and received cheers and applause as he detailed the plans to start deportations in the Windy City. He reassured that ICE would prioritize public safety threats, but warned that no one in the country illegally would be off the table.
This planned raid has sparked significant concern among immigration advocates and community leaders. They have been preparing by expanding know-your-rights trainings, distributing family safety plans, and establishing safe spaces for immigrants to stay during the operation. Illinois officials, including Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, have urged calm and emphasized their readiness to protect the community.
Dubbed “Operation Safeguard,” the raid is expected to target undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds. However, there are concerns about the potential for racial profiling, family separations, and wrongful deportations of lawful residents. The logistical challenges and potential economic impact are considerable, especially in industries that heavily rely on immigrant labor.
Sources:
https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2025/01/trump-mass-deporation-chicago-immigration-inauguration/
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