In Chicago, many families and small business owners are feeling anxious as they brace for changes expected with Donald Trump’s new administration. His team has hinted at mass deportations, raising concerns throughout the community.
These worries aren’t just about deportations. They stretch to schools and local businesses, including food vendors who might be hit hardest. In Little Village, the fear is palpable. Many there are on edge about how their lives could shift if ICE agents start looking for undocumented immigrants.
Jerry, a food cart vendor selling tamales, expressed his concerns for his family and his community. “I have papers, but my family is undocumented. A lot of food vendors are in similar situations,” he shared. The uncertainty weighs heavily on him, especially since many depend on their small businesses to provide for their families.
There are also worries that some parents might decide to keep their children home from school when classes resume. Chicago Public Schools has pledged to protect undocumented students, and the Chicago Teachers Union is standing firm against fear tactics. “We know Homeland Security Agents will try to instill fear in our students and families, and we won’t accept that,” said Jackson Potter, Vice President of the Union.
Without knowing when or where ICE might appear, people in Little Village continue to feel uneasy. An anonymous vendor mentioned that the streets might be quieter, as fear of raids could keep both customers and vendors at home. “The economy is going to suffer because many won’t come out to buy our products,” she noted.
Mayor Brandon Johnson acknowledged these fears during a recent gathering. He emphasized that while the situation is daunting, it should not dampen the community’s hope. “We cannot let fear disrupt our vision for a brighter future,” he said.
Despite the city’s commitment to being a sanctuary, the reality is that ICE may still carry out its plans as soon as next week. The combination of fear and uncertainty is making life challenging for many in the community.
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