ICE Will ‘Increase’ Activity On Halloween Despite Governor’s Request

October 31, 2025

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement will maintain heightened operations in Chicago during Halloween, claiming the efforts target dangerous criminals to protect children and residents. Local Chicago officials, including Mayor Brandon Johnson, have strongly criticized these federal immigration enforcement activities, characterizing them as racist and dehumanizing tactics that disproportionately harm Black and Latino communities. Recent enforcement actions have included nighttime apartment raids where U.S. citizens, including children, were detained and restrained with zip ties.

Who is affected

Residents of Chicago, particularly those in Black and Latino neighborhoods
U.S. citizens detained during apartment raids, including children ("Black babies")
Protesters who were tear-gassed
Students and families near an elementary school where tear gas was deployed
Mayor Brandon Johnson and other Chicago leaders
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and ICE agents

What action is being taken

ICE is conducting ongoing operations in Chicago with increased activity planned for Halloween
Federal agents are arresting individuals accused of serious crimes
Protesters are demonstrating against the federal presence
Mayor Brandon Johnson is publicly condemning the operations

Why it matters

This situation represents a significant conflict between federal immigration enforcement and local government authority, raising critical questions about civil rights, appropriate use of force, and the treatment of minority communities. The operations have allegedly resulted in constitutional violations, including the detention of U.S. citizens and the use of prohibited riot-control weapons, while disproportionately impacting Black and Latino neighborhoods. The controversy highlights deep divisions over immigration policy and the balance between public safety claims and protection of civil liberties.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle