In 2025, Chicago is experiencing an unprecedented increase in Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations under the so-called Operation Midway Blitz, a federal strategy that directly targets immigrant communities, especially Latinos, even in areas considered “sanctuary cities”.
Recent reports indicate that federal agents have made arrests at traffic stops in Latino neighborhoods, outside stores such as Home Depot and Menards, and even in the vicinity of immigration courthouses. These actions have created a climate of fear and uncertainty among immigrant workers and families.
Reports of abuse are on the rise
Immigrant advocates and local organizations have denounced that some ICE arrests have been made without visible warrants.
As well as agents in civilian clothes and vehicles without identification, which makes it difficult to know if they are real authorities.
There have even been documented cases of U.S. citizens mistakenly detained during these operations.
One of them was temporarily handcuffed until he could show identification, while another was shocked with a stun gun despite his U.S. citizenship.
These incidents have sparked strong criticism for the excessive use of force and lack of clear protocols.
Death generates outrage
Estas acciones han generado un clima de miedo
QuéOnnda.com
Tension reached its peak after the death of Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez.
A 38-year-old Mexican immigrant shot by an ICE agent in Franklin Park, a Chicago suburb.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the man attempted to flee from arrest and dragged an agent with his vehicle, prompting the officer to shoot.
However, family members, neighbors and community organizations describe him as a hardworking and respectful family man and demand an independent investigation.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has requested detailed information about the case and the Mexican Consulate in Chicago has offered legal assistance to the family.
Latino community responds
In response to these raids, activists have created rapid response networks:
Bicycle patrols that alert with whistles when they detect ICE
Posting on social networks of license plates and locations of suspicious vehicles
Collecting testimonies and videos of each raid
Free legal advice for affected families
In addition, community leaders urge immigrants to know their rights:
The right to remain silent, not to sign documents without an attorney, and not to open the door to agents without a warrant signed by a judge.
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
