Latino organizations protest Trump administration, immigration policies at Daley Plaza rally
Local Latino organizations held a rally on Thursday afternoon to protest the Trump administration and its immigration policies.
This came as El Grito, a popular Chicago Mexican Independence Day festival, was postponed amid growing concerns about a planned immigration crackdown.
The festival was planned for Grant Park on Saturday, Sept. 13 and Sunday, Sept. 14.
In a message posted to their social media, El Grito organizers wrote, "It was a painful decision, but holding El Grito Chicago at this time puts the safety of our community at stake – and that's a risk we are unwilling to take."
At the rally in Daley Plaza Thursday afternoon, leaders seemed to minimize the decision — calling El Grito a private event, and focusing on the larger public event at 26th Street Parade in Little Village.
But some elected officials are focusing on the totality of planned events — telling people to remain peaceful during any and all celebrations, and launching education campaigns around immigrations issues.
"Donald Trump is setting a trap for us," said former U.S. Rep. Luis Gutiérrez. "Don't take the bait."
Gutiérrez and other leaders issued a call to continue celebrations in the face of enforcement.
"So we're here to ask our youth to please celebrate Las Fiestas Patrias peacefully, and show your patriotism — and we're asking you to carry American flags," said Juan Ochoa of the Latino Leadership Council.
The Latino Leadership Council urged Chicago residents to move ahead with their Mexican Independence Day plans, even as the stage is set for an increase in federal officers.
The message was echoed by Mayor Brandon Johnson.
"Why would I ask people to stay home? This is Chicago. It's beautiful. I'm asking the city of Chicago to come together and rally around one another. Why would we allow someone who is auditioning to become a dictator of a democracy to intimidate the soul of America, the city of Chicago?" said Mayor Johnson. "We should celebrate. I'm going to celebrate."
The's Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights has expanded its "Know Your Rights" and family preparedness campaign in reaction to the latest concerns, with a new website, and with workshops specifically for immigrant and refugee families.
In previous years, Mexican Independence Day festivities have spilled into the streets, with long caravans blocking traffic in downtown Chicago and elsewhere, and fireworks in the street.
Elected officials urged caution.
"I'm telling people to know your rights, be extra careful, and know that there is the possibility that ICE will be on the ground and causing some mayhem," said Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker. "Don't play into their hand."
The city's Office of Immigrant, Migrant, and Refugee Rights hosted its first virtual family preparedness workshop Thursday evening. The office will host subsequent workshops every Thursday evening for the rest of the month.
Growing concerns over ICE enforcement
Thursday's rally came as Gov. Pritzker said he believes the Trump administration has chosen to drastically ramp up immigration raids and arrests in September.
Communities in Chicago's northern suburbs are preparing for the arrival of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.
Officials with the City of North Chicago said Lake County law enforcement had a meeting Wednesday with federal officials over the logistics of some 300 ICE agents arriving in the area. No hard plans were shared for when the ICE agents will hit the street, but CBS News Chicago is told they will be staying in hotels in the area.
West suburban Broadview said federal immigration officials have also contacted them, confirming large-scale enforcement operations will begin soon.
Village officials released a statement Thursday, writing, "The Village of Broadview is coordinating with our neighboring law enforcement partners, the Illinois State Police, and the Cook County Sheriff's Police to ensure safety and order are maintained in our community as ICE's operations unfold. Additionally, because Broadview respects the rule of law, we will defend the constitutionally protected right to peaceful protest and will accept no interference with that right. Simultaneously, we will reject any illegal behavior that puts Broadview police officers' safety or the safety of local businesses and residents at risk."