CHICAGO (WLS) — The federal government is increasing its immigration enforcement efforts in cities like Chicago, which are considered sanctuary cities. These cities are being specifically targeted for these operations.
During a press conference with Mayor Brandon Johnson, CPD Superintendent Larry Snelling announced that over 100 individuals have been detained in the Chicago area as part of these immigration crackdowns.
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At the press conference, Mayor Johnson reaffirmed Chicago’s status as a welcoming city.
Mayor Johnson stated, “Chicago remains a welcoming city for people worldwide, regardless of who holds the presidency. We are committed to safeguarding the rights of all individuals and families who wish to live, work, and prosper in our great city. The Welcoming City Ordinance, supported by the Illinois Trust Act, stands as the law of the land in Chicago, and we will diligently enforce it to ensure the safety of our immigrant communities.”
Johnson said city agencies are in communication with businesses, schools, hospitals, houses of worship and community organizations across the city.
Superintendent Snelling also spoke about the information they have received from immigration officials.
“Communication is there and my focus is to stay in direct contact with them so that we know what is going on at all times in our city
The House Oversight Committee Chair sent a letter to Johnson, calling on him to testify. The committee is investigating sanctuary city policies and impacts on federal authorities ability to make arrests.
The mayors of New York City, Denver, and Boston are also being invited to testify in front of the House Oversight Committee with regards to sanctuary city policies.
This comes as ICE arrested 1,179 people nationwide on Monday.
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One restaurant in Little Village says business is down 60 percent as fear is being felt across the community over recent arrests.
“It’s heartbreaking, because Little Village, we are one,” Laura Gutierrez, owner of Nuevo Leon restaurant, said. “We stand with them; we are nothing without them. Little Village is everybody who lives here.”
The hearing is scheduled for February 11.
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