Gov. Pritzker Forms Illinois Accountability Commission Amid Federal Deployments in Chicago
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has announced the formation of the Illinois Accountability Commission, focusing on immigration enforcement concerns. This initiative was initiated via an executive order signed on Thursday and aims to address issues related to immigration agents.
Core Missions of the Illinois Accountability Commission
The commission has been established with three primary goals:
- Create a comprehensive public record of abuses.
- Document the impact on families and communities.
- Recommend actions to prevent further harm.
Leadership and Commission Members
Ruben Castillo, a former federal judge, will lead the commission as its chair, with attorney Patricia Brown Holmes serving as vice chair. Other notable members include:
- Aurora Austriaco
- Professor Susan R. Gzesh from the University of Chicago
- Linda Xóchitl Tortolero
- Retired CPD Commander Cindy Sam
Community Engagement
Governor Pritzker emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting incidents related to immigration enforcement. Residents can submit reports through the future website www.ilac.gov, which is currently not active.
Response from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
The announcement has drawn criticism from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), which stated that Pritzker is undermining law enforcement efforts. The DHS accused immigration agents of facing significant risks while performing their duties and highlighted instances of violence against them.
In a related legal update, a federal judge has indefinitely extended a temporary restraining order that blocks the deployment of the National Guard in Chicago. This order, originally set to expire, remains in effect following the judge’s decision.
As Chicago navigates these developments, the establishment of the Illinois Accountability Commission marks a new chapter in addressing immigration enforcement in the state.
