The streets of some Chicago neighborhoods have taken on an eerie quiet as intensified immigration enforcement under former President Donald Trump’s policies forces communities into retreat
Reports indicate that increased raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have left many undocumented immigrants—and even those with legal status—living in fear.
In Little Village, a historically Hispanic neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, once-bustling streets now appear deserted.
Residents are hesitant to step outside, fearing potential encounters with immigration authorities.
According to local reports, ICE officials maintain that their primary focus is apprehending migrant criminals.
However, concerns persist over “collateral arrests,” where undocumented individuals not initially targeted may also be detained.
This has left many, including those with legal status, exercising heightened caution in their daily lives.
One resident, Steve, expressed his deep concern for his mother, who arrived in the U.S. from Mexico years ago without proper documentation.
“She crossed the border to give us a better life, to provide an education,” he told Sky News. “Now, she’s afraid to even go outside because she might get picked up.”
In response to the crackdown, a local community center that provides assistance to migrants has ramped up security measures.
Staff members monitor the streets each morning for signs of ICE activity, while a notice on the front door informs migrants of their rights should enforcement agents arrive.
Oliber, a Venezuelan migrant who possesses a valid U.S. work permit, described how the atmosphere of fear has changed his routine.
“I feel scared,” he admitted. “I used to go out freely, work at any time. Now, I can’t. There are rumors about ICE raids, and I worry I could be deported. My family depends on me.”