Latest News in Chicago, IL

ICE Escalates Violence Against Protesters In Broadview, Journalist Arrested

Federal authorities intensified their actions in Broadview, arresting a journalist and deploying chemical weapons against protesters after the mayor criticized ICE's tactics. Broadview Mayor Katrina Thompson urged the Department of Homeland Security to cease using chemical arms against residents, which she labeled as "making war" on the community. The escalating tensions have raised concerns about the use of excessive force against peaceful demonstrators.

Armed Federal Agents Patrol Downtown, The Gold Coast To Chants Of Shame

Large groups of U.S. Customs and Border Patrol agents patrolled Downtown Chicago on Sunday, detaining a family at Millennium Park. Local officials condemned the militarized presence, with Mayor Brandon Johnson calling it a "brazen provocation" by the Trump administration. Witnesses reported armed officers intimidating residents as they marched through high-traffic areas.

Forty Acres Fresh Market Opens In Austin, Bringing Grocery Store To Area Facing Food Apartheid

Forty Acres Fresh Market opened in Austin, addressing food access issues in a neighborhood previously lacking grocery options. The Black woman-owned store aims to combat "food apartheid" by providing fresh produce and essential goods. Local residents expressed excitement over the store's potential impact on their community.

Feds Tear Gas, Shoot Rubber Bullets At Protesters Outside Broadview ICE Facility Again

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.

Armed Border Agents Cruise On Chicago River Slammed As Photo Op By Alderman

Customs and Border Protection agents conducted a boat patrol on the Chicago River, drawing criticism from local officials who labeled it a “photo op.” Alderman Brendan Reilly and Mayor Brandon Johnson condemned the operation, arguing it instills fear in immigrant communities and lacks coordination with local law enforcement.

Starbucks Closing At Least 12 Chicago Stores This Weekend Under Nationwide Restructuring

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, Hyde Parks Newspaperman And Renowned Arts Patron, Dies At 96

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.

Block Club Block Party Kids Zone Will Have Art, Dancing, A Bounce House And More

Block Club Chicago hosts its second annual block party on October 4, featuring local vendors, food, drinks, and a kids zone with activities like a bounce house. Families can enjoy live music from performers including the Wiggleworms and the Jesse White Tumblers throughout the day. VIP tickets are available for those interested in food, drink, and Block Club merchandise.

Latina Comedy Festival Celebrates Culture With 3 Days Of Laughs

The Latina Comedy Festival returns to Logan Square from October 2-4, featuring 50 performers across 20 shows, including three performances in Spanish. Associate producer Jessi Realz emphasized the festival's role in attracting diverse audiences and uplifting Latina voices in comedy. Tickets are available online for approximately $24 each.

After Beloved Tamale Vendor Arrested By ICE, Neighbors Vow To Keep Her Stand Going

Neighbors in Back of the Yards rallied to support local tamale vendor Laura Murillo after her arrest by ICE agents. Organizers raised funds by selling her tamales, emphasizing community solidarity against federal immigration enforcement targeting undocumented individuals. Over 500 arrests have occurred in the Chicago area since the start of recent immigration operations.