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Federal agents confronted protesters outside the Broadview ICE facility on Friday morning, employing rubber bullets and tear gas. Demonstrators opposed federal operations targeting undocumented individuals, with tensions escalating as agents used force against the crowd. As protests intensified, some participants reported injuries from less-lethal munitions.
Tensions escalated outside an ICE facility in Chicago this week, coinciding with events like a historic river swim and Riot Fest. Block Club Chicago reporters captured these moments, highlighting the city's vibrant community engagement.
Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson condemned federal agents for using tear gas and rubber bullets against protesters at an ICE facility, claiming their actions endanger the community. Thompson demanded the removal of a fence blocking access to the facility, which she called illegal and harmful. She urged federal officials to stop their aggressive tactics and adopt a more compassionate approach.
Starbucks plans to close about 1 percent of its North American stores, affecting several locations in Chicago and resulting in approximately 900 corporate layoffs. CEO Brian Niccol cited a company-wide review that identified unprofitable coffeehouses as the reason for the closures, which include the Wicker Park location that was revamped in 2017.
Bruce Sagan, a prominent Hyde Park newspaperman and arts patron, died at 96 after a brief battle with cancer. He founded the Hyde Park Herald and played a key role in relocating the Joffrey Ballet to Chicago. Sagan received a National Medal of Arts from President Joe Biden in 2024.
Chicago Public Schools reported a 2.8 percent drop in enrollment this school year, totaling 316,224 students. This decline marks the first decrease in enrollment in three years and continues a trend of reduced student numbers over the past 15 years. Factors contributing to this decline include decreasing birth rates and immigration concerns affecting families in the city.
The City Council approved the Jackson Park Housing Pilot Ordinance, aimed at enhancing affordable housing on the South Side. This legislation reserves city-owned lots for affordable apartments and homeownership programs after a previous proposal stalled for nearly two years. The ordinance reflects community support for affordable housing near the future Obama Presidential Center.
A truck driver struck a protester outside the ICE facility in Broadview, prompting an investigation by local police. Witness Jose Ocegueda believes the driver was an ICE agent, and the incident occurred amidst ongoing protests against federal immigration enforcement operations. Police reported that the situation escalated when ICE agents deployed pepper-spray balls towards demonstrators.
The Chicago City Council approved two hotel developments on the South Side, including a 250-room hotel near the future Obama Presidential Center. The council also greenlit a six-story hotel and a 51-unit apartment building linked to the XS Tennis and Education Foundation. These projects aim to boost local development and address housing needs in the area.
Little Village properties have been rezoned from industrial to commercial use following community requests for less industry. Ald. Michael Rodriguez emphasized the changes will promote small businesses and reduce truck traffic in the neighborhood. This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance local community planning.