CHICAGO — Reverend Homero Sanchez, serving the immigrant community in Chicago, recently became acutely aware of the heightened anxiety faced by those he aids. His realization struck when a parishioner entrusted him with the responsibility of managing their finances and property in the event of an arrest during the impending presidential transition as Donald Trump is set to take office.
In anticipation of mass arrests since Trump’s November election victory, the prospect of a crackdown specifically targeting the Chicago area has amplified fears within immigrant circles. “They feel targeted for their identity. This echoes the fears they experienced eight years ago,” Sanchez stated, referencing the concern and trepidation prevalent among his congregation, which has predominantly comprised individuals of Mexican descent since the 1980s. To demonstrate support for the immigrant community, Sanchez devoted a Sunday Mass to this issue.
Many undocumented immigrants are taking precautionary measures; they are assigning power of attorney to trusted friends, arranging childcare for potential separations, and installing security systems to safeguard their homes against possible immigration raids. Some have even chosen to leave the country voluntarily, following advice from Trump’s aides.
While deportation plans remain in flux, it has been reported that federal immigration officials will focus on over 300 individuals with serious criminal records soon after Trump assumes office. The operation will be centered around the Chicago area and is expected to unfold throughout the week, contingent on weather conditions, which forecast frigid temperatures, dropping to as low as 6 degrees Fahrenheit (-14.4 degrees Celsius).
Historically, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has captured only a small portion of their intended targets during such operations. However, under Trump, it is anticipated that immigration enforcement could significantly broaden compared to the Biden administration’s approach, which was more targeted towards those posing a national security threat or with severe criminal backgrounds. Biden also discontinued mass arrests at work sites, which were more common during Trump’s tenure, including a major operation against poultry processing plants in Mississippi in 2019.
Advisors to Trump have noted intentions to also apprehend individuals who, while not the primary targets, may be living in the country without legal permission, such as family members or roommates. In a recent interview with NBC News, Trump stated that large-scale deportations would soon commence but did not disclose specific locations or timelines, citing the evolving nature of the plans.
Sanctuary cities, which restrict local law enforcement’s collaboration with federal immigration officials, remain a consistent focus for Trump, particularly in Chicago. Known as a sanctuary city since the 1980s, Chicago has reinforced its protective policies multiple times, notably after the onset of Trump’s administration in 2017. Just last week, the City Council firmly rejected a proposal that would have allowed local police to assist ICE with deportation matters for individuals accused or convicted of crimes.
Tom Homan, Trump’s appointed “border czar,” criticized Democratic leaders in Illinois during a previous visit, hinting that enforcement actions would begin in Chicago. However, he acknowledged that plans are being reconsidered. Appearing on Fox News, Homan confirmed that while Chicago remains a consideration, the specifics are still being determined.
Community leaders have expressed concern about the looming operation but are preparing in response. Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson affirmed his commitment to defending the city’s residents on social media. Cardinal Blase Cupich, the leader of the Archdiocese of Chicago, echoed these sentiments, stating that reports of mass deportations targeting Chicago were deeply troubling and against the city’s proud tradition of welcoming immigrants.
In response to these concerns, immigrant rights advocates rallied in Chicago, joined by Democratic Representatives Jesus “Chuy” Garcia and Delia Ramirez. They urged the immigrant community to stay composed and informed about their rights, emphasizing the importance of remaining silent and not allowing immigration agents entry without warrants. Several advocacy organizations plan to conduct legal workshops in preparation for possible mass arrests.
Ramirez has opted to forego attending the inauguration on Monday to distribute flyers in Chicago neighborhoods with high immigrant populations, providing guidance on handling encounters with immigration enforcement. “We won’t lower our guard here in Chicago,” Garcia stated on social media.
Carlos, a long-time resident from Mexico who lacks legal status, shared his family’s plans for potential deportation. At 56, he possesses work authorization in construction and welding but refused to disclose his last name for fear of being apprehended. His three children are protected from deportation under the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, which remains uncertain in legal standing.
Contingency plans for Carlos’ family include appointing someone to manage their finances, home, and vehicles, and they have also installed security cameras at their residence. “If someone arrives at the home, don’t open the door. Ask for their identification and only let them in if they have a court order,” he advised.
