Chicago residents voiced their strong disapproval of recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportation operations during a weekend protest. Dozens gathered near the Water Tower downtown on Saturday, expressing outrage and carrying signs critical of ICE. This follows recent statements by border czar Tom Homan promising a crackdown on migration in Chicago. Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling reported that over 100 individuals have been detained since the operations began on Sunday.

Mayor Brandon Johnson openly criticized the ICE actions, accusing the Trump administration of trying to erode the city's compassion. He also faces scrutiny from House Oversight and Government Reform Chair James Comer, who requested his testimony regarding Chicago's sanctuary city policies, a request Johnson has reportedly declined to address.

Among the protesters, several individuals shared their perspectives. Ruth emphasized the statistical unlikelihood of immigrants committing crimes, asserting they are among the least likely demographic to do so. Erin, a Chicago Public Schools employee, condemned the raids as violations of due process and echoed the sentiment that immigrants pose no genuine threat. She highlighted the Chicago Teachers Union's (CTU) longstanding advocacy for sanctuary status within schools, ensuring non-cooperation with ICE. Andrea expressed skepticism towards ICE’s stated objective of targeting criminal aliens, citing personal testimonies and experiences that contradict this claim. Elena questioned ICE's efficacy and purpose, suggesting the agency functions primarily as a tool of intimidation. Laura expressed a wait-and-see attitude towards ICE’s actions.

ICE maintains that their operations are focused on individuals deemed threats to national security or public safety. However, this assertion was met with disbelief by protesters. The demonstrations come amidst ongoing criticism from Chicago residents, particularly those on the south side, regarding the influx of migrants and Mayor Johnson's management of the situation. Over 20,000 migrants have arrived in Chicago since August 2022, with thousands currently housed in shelters, straining city resources.