Chicago Churches Urge Calm Resistance Ahead of Expected Federal Intervention

September 20, 2025

Chicago churches and community leaders are mobilizing in response to President Trump's threatened federal intervention, which includes immigration enforcement operations and possible National Guard deployment to the city. Reverend Marshall Hatch of New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church urged congregants to carry identification and stay connected with family members to avoid "disappearing" amid the expected crackdown. While details remain sparse, Trump's border czar Tom Homan confirmed federal law enforcement action will begin in Chicago this week, potentially using a military base north of the city for a 45-day operation.

Who is affected

Chicago's nearly 3 million residents, particularly Black and Latino communities
Immigrant communities in Chicago, especially those in sanctuary neighborhoods
Church congregants in neighborhoods like West Garfield Park and Little Village
Attendees of Mexican Independence Day celebrations
Residents of suburbs where federal facilities will be used for immigration processing

What action is being taken

Churches are advising congregants to carry identification and stay connected with family
Religious leaders are addressing the threat of federal intervention from their pulpits
Churches are reminding people of their rights when interacting with immigration agents
Black elected leaders are holding news conferences to oppose the intervention
New Mount Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church is breaking ground on an arts and activism center

Why it matters

The intervention threatens Chicago's strong sanctuary laws protecting immigrants
Trust in law enforcement is already fragile in Black and Latino communities
The operation could last 45 days, creating extended disruption in the city
Previous immigration operations in January had chilling effects on church attendance
Local leaders argue resources, not military presence, are needed to address issues like violence
Chicago communities fear similar outcomes as in Los Angeles and Washington D.C., where Trump has already deployed federal forces

What's next

Federal law enforcement action will come to Chicago this week, according to Trump's border czar
The Department of Homeland Security plans to use a military base north of the city for operations
Federal authorities will use an immigration processing center in a suburb for the operation
More workplace enforcement operations are expected, similar to the recent raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia
Federal intervention is expected to potentially last 45 days

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint