SW Side Activists Urge Property Owner to Remove ICE from Parking Lot

Activists from Chicago’s Southwest Side are urging a local property owner to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from conducting operations in its parking lot. The Yards Plaza, located at 4636 S. Damen Ave, has reportedly been used by federal agents for detaining individuals and staging enforcement actions.

Community Call to Action Against ICE Activities

Members of the Southwest Side community gathered for a press conference to express their concerns. Corina Pedraza from the Southwest Side Rapid Response Team emphasized the group’s demand for Friedman Real Estate to take immediate action. “Friedman, we want you to kick ICE out of your property today,” Pedraza declared, highlighting the need to protect local residents.

Background on ICE Operations

Tensions have escalated in the area due to recent federal operations dubbed “Midway Blitz” and “At Large.” These initiatives aim to increase immigration enforcement across Chicago. In response, local leaders and lawmakers have sought methods to counter these federal actions. Mayor Brandon Johnson recently issued an executive order prohibiting federal agents from using city-owned properties for enforcement purposes, urging private owners to participate as well.

• Property Owner’s Response: Friedman Real Estate has not publicly commented on the issue.
• Community Support: Alderman Julia Ramirez (12th Ward) has reached out to Friedman, asking them to refuse entry to federal agents.
• Broader Appeal: Activists are also appealing to other companies, including Home Depot and Walmart, to prevent ICE’s use of their parking lots.

Community Impact and Safety Concerns

Concerns about safety in the area have risen, particularly among school officials. Yesenia Lopez, a member of the Chicago Public Schools Board of Education, noted that the presence of armed ICE agents near schools creates a climate of intimidation. “That’s not safety, that’s intimidation,” she stated.

Southwest Side residents have reported an increase in federal agent activity, which has altered daily life. According to Alderman Ramirez, this has affected how locals shop for groceries, care for their children, and support one another.

Statistics on ICE Activity

Russell Hott, the ICE field director in Chicago, confirmed that over 1,000 individuals have been arrested during the Midway Blitz operation, with thousands more currently wanted.

Ongoing Community Initiatives

Local rapid response teams continue to monitor ICE activities to support and educate community members on their rights. “We will use everything in our power to resist and to remind people that Chicago is our home,” Pedraza affirmed. She encouraged local businesses to take a stand against ICE, insisting that complacency will no longer be tolerated.

Community members are determined to advocate for their rights and protect their neighborhoods as they confront federal immigration enforcement actions.