Immigrant raids across the United States have sparked fear in Chicago, leaving many residents uncertain about leaving their homes or going to work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Scenes of deportations in chains on military aircraft further heightened concerns, especially among the Latino community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A business owner who came to America over 30 years ago and became a US citizen pointed out that the raids are seriously endangering business. \u201eMost of our customers are Latinos, nearly 95%, and now they are afraid to leave the house,\u201c he said, adding that this situation could have serious consequences for the city's economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Sam Toia of the Illinois Restaurant Association, out of 586,000 hospitality employees in the state, about 300,000 work in Chicago, and as many as 40% are immigrants. \u201eAnxiety is high. People are afraid they will be stopped on the street and asked for their papers,\u201c Toia said, noting that some workers have already stopped coming to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling stated that since Sunday, January 26, more than 100 people have been detained, but that the raids are focusing on those with criminal records. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized that the city will remain \u201ewelcoming\u201c to immigrants and that the police will not share information regarding their status.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the raids continue, legal organizations and associations are calling on workers to seek help, reminding them that agents must have a warrant to enter homes and businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n