Chicago Leaders Unite to End ICE Raids
For the first time since Operation Midway Blitz began, a wide coalition of Chicago's business, civic, and faith leaders came together to demand an end to the ICE raids. They warn these actions are significantly affecting the city's workforce and economy.
Economic Impact on Chicago Communities
From downtown companies to retail areas in Latino neighborhoods, the enforcement efforts under the Trump administration's ICE policies have united diverse business and civic leaders. The raids have sparked concerns about the economic toll on local businesses.
“The point is to shock and to scare, not to enforce immigration laws,” said Chicago CRED Founder and former Education Secretary Arne Duncan. “It is an attempt to create learned helplessness in our communities.”
Formation of United for Chicago
Arne Duncan helped organize a group named United for Chicago to address this issue directly.
“We know the president listens to business leaders,” said Rebecca Shi, CEO of the American Business Immigration Coalition. “He's extremely motivated by what the business community has to say. This is just the beginning, and businesses are starting to make their voices heard.”
Shi also described Operation Midway Blitz as economically reckless, noting some businesses have seen their revenues drop by as much as 50% due to the raids.
Related Coverage
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Author's summary: Chicago’s business, civic, and faith leaders unite against ICE raids, highlighting the significant economic harm and urging an end to enforcement that they say terrorizes communities and weakens local economies.