In recent weeks, volunteers in Chicago suburbs have stepped up efforts to support migrants facing increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions. Activists, notably the People’s Patrol, are actively monitoring their communities and assisting undocumented immigrants amid rising tensions.
Community Vigilance Against ICE
The People’s Patrol, an all-volunteer group, has mobilized in communities like Hanover Park, Illinois. Here, they offer guidance and support to immigrant families frightened by ICE’s increased presence. On October 10, 2025, a local volunteer named Ruby instructed children to document any suspicious activities related to ICE. She provided them with whistles as a tool for alerting the community.
- Children are encouraged to report sightings of ICE agents.
- Documentation of activities may assist in identifying detained individuals.
Ruby reminds local children and families to remain vigilant and informed about their rights. This grassroots approach reflects the community’s need for protection and resources during a period of heightened enforcement actions.
Response to ICE Operations
Residents have expressed fear and anxiety since the Trump administration implemented stricter immigration policies through ICE’s Operation Midway Blitz. Local resident Diana shared her concerns about ICE chasing her neighbors and how it has impacted her daily life.
- Some residents are avoiding work and keeping children home from school.
- Daily sightings of ICE arrests have become common.
Ivan, a 17-year-old community member, patrols his neighborhood willingly, attempting to provide a safety net for those at risk. He uses his observations of suspicious vehicles to warn others, emphasizing the vital role immigrants play in the community and economy.
Volunteer Coordination and Communication
Cristóbal Cavazos, the co-founder of the Casa DuPage Workers Center and an organizer with the People’s Patrol, actively uses social media to alert community members about ICE’s activities. Through Facebook Live sessions, he aims to keep families informed about potential ICE sightings in the suburbs.
Volunteers employ non-aggressive methods to disrupt ICE operations. They utilize loud noises and public gatherings to create barriers against enforcement actions. However, they face challenges as federal agents increasingly respond with force. Recent incidents have involved Border Patrol deploying tear gas against protesters responding to ICE actions.
The Role of Activism
Despite the looming threats, Cavazos remains committed to supporting the immigrant community. He believes in prioritizing the safety and rights of residents over fear of retaliation from federal authorities.
- Volunteers help migrants access legal resources and support.
- They also defend free speech and the right to protest.
As the situation evolves, the People’s Patrol and similar groups continue their efforts to provide comfort and safety to vulnerable populations in Chicago and its suburbs. Their work highlights the resilience and solidarity within immigrant communities amid ongoing challenges posed by ICE actions.
