Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson has taken decisive action to restrict federal immigration enforcement on city property. On Monday, he issued an executive order prohibiting federal agents from using city-owned spaces for staging operations related to civil immigration enforcement.
Key Features of the Executive Order
- The order prohibits the use of city-owned properties by federal agents.
- Private property owners are encouraged to display signs deterring federal enforcement actions.
- Lawful judicial warrants and criminal investigations are not affected by this order.
This executive action was prompted by reports of federal agents using city lots at locations including Harrison and Kedzie and 46th and Damen for immigration operations. City officials argued that these actions undermine community trust and violate the Welcoming City Ordinance.
Signage for Private Property Owners
While the executive order does not mandate compliance from private property owners, it offers free signage to those who choose to participate. These signs will clarify that no federal officers may enter for civil immigration enforcement and that properties cannot be used as staging or processing areas.
Eligible entities include businesses, nonprofits, and faith-based institutions. Mayor Johnson emphasized the need for community spaces to remain safe for Chicago residents, stating that parks, libraries, and school parking lots should not be utilized by federal agencies for enforcement actions.
Enforcement and Legal Actions
Although the order does not allow local police to arrest federal officers, Mayor Johnson indicated that legal action would be initiated against those who violate the executive order. “If the federal government violates this Executive Order, we will take them to court,” Johnson asserted.
Response to Federal Troop Deployment
The executive order comes in the wake of a controversial decision by the Trump administration to deploy Illinois National Guard troops to Chicago. The troops are slated to guard Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities, with concerns raised about the constitutionality of such a deployment.
In reaction, Illinois leaders have filed a lawsuit seeking an emergency order to block the National Guard’s deployment, which they argue threatens local governance and public safety.
Recent Incidents with Federal Agents
The executive order’s announcement follows a violent incident involving U.S. Border Patrol agents and civilians. A woman was shot by federal agents during a confrontation on Chicago’s Southwest Side. Reports indicate that the federal agents felt threatened as they were surrounded by multiple civilian vehicles.
Critics of the federal actions allege that the narrative presented by authorities does not accurately reflect the events. Advocacy groups have collectively stated that federal enforcement tactics could endanger community members and escalate tensions.
As community unrest grows, Mayor Johnson has hinted at further executive actions in response to ongoing escalations from federal immigration enforcement. “If Congress will not check this administration, then Chicago will,” he noted, signaling a commitment to protecting the city’s values and residents.
