BROADVIEW, Ill. (AP) — Protesters tried to block vehicles Friday outside a federal immigration enforcement building in suburban Chicago, leading to a confrontation with authorities who used a chemical agent to disperse the crowd.
Dozens of people carrying American flags and signs with the words “Hands off Chicago” gathered at a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in Broadview, located about 12 miles west of Chicago.
As the confrontation escalated, some protesters were taken into custody while clouds of chemical agents filled the air, allowing vehicles to navigate the area. Video footage captured by local news crews showed the chaotic scene.
Chicago City Council member Andre Vasquez, present at the protest, described the agents as a combination of tear gas and pepper spray, stating it was an aggressive response to their peaceful assembly.
This protest coincided with ICE launching a new operation aimed specifically at targeting immigrant communities through increased traffic stops and detentions.
“They want us to be afraid,” stated Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, a Democrat, echoing the sentiment of many who were present. She defended the actions taken by the activists, emphasizing their commitment to standing against the Trump administration’s immigration policies.
The Broadview facility, known for holding immigrants temporarily before deportation, has seen regular protests, including vigils led by local advocates and religious leaders.
In light of recent violence involving an immigration officer, local activists and leaders have vowed to resist government overreach and support their community in these times of heightened enforcement activities.
