Pertissue Fisher is trying to recover after a terrifying experience with federal immigration agents. They stormed her apartment building in South Shore early Wednesday and pulled her and others from their beds. Fisher recalls one agent pointing a gun at her face while another tightened handcuffs around her wrists, leaving bruises. Despite being a U.S. citizen, she and others were held for hours. “I have kids, I have grandkids. If I had gotten killed, who would answer for it?” Fisher, 54, asked.
This raid was part of the Trump administration’s aggressive “Operation Midway Blitz,” which has sparked outrage among local leaders. U.S. Reps. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Delia Ramirez, Robin Kelly, and Jonathan Jackson are now calling for an end to federal immigration enforcement in Chicago.
At a press conference following the raid, Garcia emphasized the seriousness of the situation. He stated, “This isn’t just about immigrants. This is about controlling our communities—Black, Brown, and working-class.” According to the Department of Homeland Security, 37 individuals were arrested during the raid, some linked to drug trafficking and other crimes.
The aftermath of the raid showed signs of damage. Plywood covered several doors, and broken glass littered the area. Nearby, a sign read, “The fascists who did this have names and addresses.” Residents, many of whom are Black, and local leaders are now working together to support those affected. They’re connecting displaced families with mutual aid and legal resources.
Markus Bracey witnessed the raid and described how federal agents entered from all directions. “They squeezed in so no one could escape,” he said, pointing to the boarded-up units in the building. Ramirez, along with other representatives, is pursuing accountability for the actions of the agents and considering legislation related to the raids.
Social media has been buzzing with reactions to the raid. Many community members are expressing their frustrations and fears about immigration enforcement in their neighborhoods. Advocates like Ana Guajardo are calling for the release of individuals detained under questionable circumstances, such as Laura Morillo, who was taken while selling tamales to support her family. Guajardo noted, “She was not a criminal; she was a mother trying to feed her kids.”
Recent research shows that 68% of Americans believe immigration enforcement strategies have become too aggressive. This sentiment reflects a growing concern over how such operations disproportionately impact immigrant and minority communities.
U.S. lawmakers, including Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth, have called for a meeting with ICE officials to address ongoing concerns about detention practices. Ramirez stated, “We expect that meeting to happen as soon as possible.” Meanwhile, city leaders recently signed a letter in support of Ald. Jessie Fuentes, who was handcuffed while demanding proper warrants during an ICE operation. They affirmed that showing a warrant before detention is essential, highlighting a critical issue in today’s immigration enforcement practices.
The South Shore community is rallying, confronting fears while demanding answers and justice. As tensions rise, the conversation about immigration enforcement and community safety continues to be a priority.
