ICE Agents Expected in Evanston This Week: City

EVANSTON, IL — Federal immigration agents are expected to be in Evanston in the coming days, city officials were told over the weekend.

ICE agents were active in the Chicagoland over the weekend as well, with reports of officers detaining three people in Chicago's southwest side on Sunday.

Community members were urged to stay aware and report sightings of federal agents to the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights hotline immediately at 855-435-7693. When interacting with federal agents, it is important to know your rights.

"In Evanston, we welcome our immigrant and refugee neighbors and protect each other," officials said in a statement. "The City has not requested the presence of federal immigration officers targeting our community members, and we will do all we can to safeguard our community and keep Evanston families together."

The Evanston City Council will consider two new pieces of legislation at Monday night's meeting that aim to prevent federal immigration agents from wearing masks.

Evanston Police Department officers identify themselves by wearing uniforms or vests that are clearly marked with "Evanston Police" to ensure quick identification. This is mandatory while on duty to support officer safety and establish public trust.

Community members with concerns about whether masked actors are legitimate officers, or who suspect that they've been approached by someone impersonating an officer, were urged to take immediate action. Call 911 to report the incident or file a formal complaint with the Evanston Police Department.

"During this time of uncertainty and fear, it is critical to maintain a strong sense of community, as well as provide accurate information. The City stands alongside the community during these challenging times and will share well-sourced information from credible sources," officials said.