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Chicagoans celebrate Día de los Muertos with various events throughout the city from October 24 to November 2. Activities include community altars, a motorcycle run, markets, and cultural performances honoring deceased loved ones. The festivities aim to foster community engagement and cultural appreciation.
Jesse Íñiguez opened Back of the Yards Coffeehouse in March 2025 to create a community hub amid rising fears over federal immigration enforcement in Chicago. The cafe, which sold out on its first day, aims to support local residents through partnerships and community events. Íñiguez emphasizes the importance of representation in the neighborhood where he grew up.
Developers propose a 29-story apartment building with 397 units and 16,000 square feet of retail space at 1200 W. Carroll Ave. in Fulton Market. If approved, construction could begin early next year, with plans for 20% of the units to be affordable.
Chicago Alderperson Maria Fuentes demands $100,000 in damages after an ICE agent handcuffed her, resulting in injuries to her wrists and shoulders. Fuentes claims the incident caused her "extreme mental distress, anguish and fear." She filed the claim on Tuesday, highlighting the physical and emotional toll of the encounter.
ICE agents detained Ruben Torres, the father of terminally ill 16-year-old Ofelia Torres, shortly after his daughter returned home from chemotherapy. Torres’ attorney argues that his detention violates constitutional rights, as he has no criminal record and is a long-term resident of the U.S. A bond hearing is scheduled for Thursday.
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) announced new dual language and world language programs at several schools to enhance language education for students. The expansion, part of a contract with the Chicago Teachers Union, aims to provide more language options in response to the needs of a diverse student population. CPS currently operates 43 dual language programs and approximately 240 world language programs citywide.
Chicago's Mayor Brandon Johnson's administration filed a lawsuit against the Department of Homeland Security over new conditions for emergency funding that prohibit spending on diversity programs. The city risks losing $10 million in grants essential for emergency management and counterterrorism efforts. Chicago joins several other cities in challenging what they view as federal overreach in local governance.
A federal judge ordered Border Patrol Chief Greg Bovino to testify in a lawsuit concerning the use of force against journalists and protesters by immigration agents. U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis raised concerns over compliance with a temporary ban on riot-control weapons during recent incidents in Chicago. The ruling follows allegations of excessive force during immigration enforcement operations.
Devil Dawgs opened a new location in Andersonville at 5259 N. Clark St., taking over part of the former Reza’s Persian restaurant. Meanwhile, Panda Express plans to open a new outlet in Edgewater, with permits issued for signage at 1123 W. Berwyn Ave. Other newcomers include Cafe Colombiano and Piacere Mio, expanding the dining options in the area.
Chicago Public Schools plans to approve a $60 million contract with CDW to track its technology devices over four years. This decision follows reports of thousands of lost devices amid a technology spending surge during the pandemic. The new system aims to enhance accountability and reduce device loss.