Chicago Residents Say Trump’s ICE Raids Target Families Not Criminals

Chicago’s immigrant neighborhoods are on edge this week after federal immigration agents launched what the Trump administration has dubbed “Operation Midway Blitz.” While officials say the raids are targeting violent offenders, community leaders and immigrant rights groups insist the operation is spreading fear far beyond the alleged criminals.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, four people have been arrested since the raids began Sunday. The charges range from aggravated sexual assault of a child to armed robbery. Federal officials argue that their mission is clear: go after “the worst of the worst.” In a statement, an ICE spokesperson said the agency is determined to focus on dangerous offenders who “roam the community and wreak havoc on neighbors.”

But many Chicagoans are telling a different story.

Rey Wences of the Illinois Coalition of Immigrant and Refugee Rights said at a news conference that agents have been seen approaching people randomly on the street. “What we’re experiencing today is not normal. People being snatched from their family members is not normal,” Wences said.

Alderwoman Jeylú Gutiérrez of Chicago’s 14th Ward echoed those concerns, saying the raids feel less like targeted law enforcement and more like intimidation. “It’s never been about arresting the worst of the worst. It’s about terrorizing our communities. But we will not be intimidated,” she told reporters.

The raids are already changing daily life in immigrant-heavy neighborhoods, particularly on the city’s Southwest Side. Local residents say street vendors have disappeared and workers are afraid to leave home. “We’ve already seen a huge decrease in people going outside,” said Any Huamani of the Brighton Park Neighborhood Council. “No vendors are outside, people are scared, people are afraid.”

Advocates are stepping in to calm fears and provide support. Rapid response teams have been formed across Illinois, ready to show up in person when sightings of federal agents are reported. Volunteers distribute “Know Your Rights” information, reminding people that they are not required to answer immigration questions or open their doors without a warrant.

Meanwhile, activists in Los Angeles — where immigration crackdowns have already fueled protests — are advising Chicago organizers to confront the raids directly. “We think that confronting it head-on is the best source of courage for people and resilience,” said Marisol Marquez of Centro CSO, an LA-based group.

With hundreds of Homeland Security officers expected to operate out of a naval base near Chicago, immigrant rights leaders warn the raids may expand in the coming days. But they stress that solidarity is the strongest defense. “We want to let our neighbors know not to be discouraged,” Marquez said. “Our community is united and we will continue to be united.”