IFT Statement: ICE Escalation Against Peaceful Protesters Is an Abuse of Power

This morning in the Chicago suburb of Broadview, ICE and Border Patrol agents tear gassed, shot pepper spray bullets at, and detained protesters outside an immigrant detention center. This is an alarming abuse of power. Illinois Federation of Teachers President Dan Montgomery issued the following statement:

“Peaceful protesters should never be met with violence. The rights to free speech and peaceful assembly are fundamental freedoms guaranteed in our Constitution, not privileges granted at the discretion of armed agents. Today’s attack is not an isolated incident, but part of a broader pattern of ICE intimidation and excessive force aimed at immigrants and our most vulnerable communities.

“We demand that ICE stop using violence against our communities, respect the constitutional rights of demonstrators, and be held accountable for any abuses of police powers.”

If you or someone you know needs assistance, please contact the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights’ Family Support Hotline at 1-855-435-7693 or 855-Help-My-Family.