Blue Island Police Will Not Engage In Federal Immigration Enforcement

BLUE ISLAND, IL — As streets empty under the threat of mass deportations in Chicago and surrounding communities, the City of Blue Island has issued a statement that its police force will not participate in federal immigration enforcement activities.

“The City of Blue Island’s greatest strength is its diversity,” the statement read, which was posted on Facebook. “We value and will work to protect every family and child in our community.”

Earlier this week, Gov. J.B.Pritzker is pledged to uphold state laws relating to immigration amid White House pressures.

Pritzker said he supports deportation of undocumented individuals convicted of violent crimes, but said that he is dedicated to protecting other residents from deportation simply because of their immigration status, NBC Chicago reported.

>>> Mercy Sisters Prepare Asylum Seekers For Uncertainties Under Trump

“I want criminals off the streets, and law enforcement officers to do their jobs,” Pritzker told NBC Chicago reporter Mary Ann Ahern. “Undocumented people who are law-abiding and holding down jobs shouldn’t be arrested just because they’re undocumented.”

City officials said the Blue Island Police Department operates with limited resources and will not participate in federal immigration enforcement activities.

“Our focus will remain on community safety … We will continue to uphold the state laws that protect all the families who live, work, and contribute to the thriving fabric of Illinois.”

Meanwhile, rumors flew Monday on neighborhood social media of ICE agents spotted in the south suburbs.

“My uncle got stopped by ICE. They’re dressed in civilian gear according to him and presented him with a badge and asked to present ID and his status,” said a member of the Posen, IL & Blue Island, IL Facebook group. “I questioned it for a while, but this is for real y'all!”

Another group member responded that ICE agents were sighted in South Holland.

“I know Blue Island is filled of undocumented families and it hurts to see everyone stressed and scared. As I am for my family as well, if anyone needs me to go grocery shopping for them or any task they’re too afraid to go do. I’ll be that person for you. Know that you are not alone,” the group member added.

The comments also included Spanish language translations.

Last month, President Donald Trump’s “Immigration czar” Tom Homan claimed Chicago would be ground zero for mass deportations.

Regardless of residents’ immigration status, the City of Blue Island is recommending that families prepare an emergency plan, including organizing emergency contacts, creating a list of people to help with their case, important documents, and, if needed, short-term guardianship for children if parents are taken into custody by ICE.

Blue Island officials also charged a tool kit put out by the Immigration Legal Resources Center.