Communities Rally to Safeguard Children Amid Immigration Raids

Federal immigration enforcement has intensified in Chicago this fall, prompting local communities to step up and ensure that children can safely attend school. In response to the heightened presence of immigration agents, community leaders and volunteers have organized transportation and support systems to help families navigate this challenging environment.

Baltazar Enriquez, a prominent figure in the Little Village Community Council, has been at the forefront of these efforts. With his grey SUV loaded with supplies, he picks up children for school each morning, aware of the federal agents targeting nearby neighborhoods. “They are probably coming here next,” Enriquez notes as he prepares to take a young girl to her elementary school. His organization has taken on the responsibility of transporting over 60 children daily, creating a network that has been dubbed the “magic school buses.”

The initiative emerged in the wake of Operation Midway Blitz, which began on September 8, 2023. Under the direction of U.S. Border Patrol agents, including their confrontational leader, Gregory Bovino, this operation aimed to enforce immigration laws more robustly across the city. Community leaders, educators, and parents expressed deep concerns that the fear generated by these raids would prevent children from attending school, ultimately hampering their education.

Data obtained by Eric White from WBEZ indicates mixed results regarding school attendance during this period. While some students stayed home due to fear, many families demonstrated resilience. Attendance rates at predominantly Latino schools remained largely consistent with prior years, showing that community efforts had a significant impact. Notably, attendance at Latino high schools dropped from 89% before the operation to 84% afterward, reflecting both the pressure from immigration actions and a general decline in student engagement.

Specific incidents have highlighted the anxiety surrounding these immigration enforcement actions. For instance, on September 29, nearly 14,000 students from predominantly Latino schools missed school following a series of raids in the areas. Community members reported that fears of random detentions contributed to significant attendance drops, particularly on days following aggressive enforcement activities. In East Side neighborhoods, attendance plummeted to 76% after armed agents conducted operations, compared to a usual attendance rate of 92%.

Despite these challenges, many parents and community members have banded together to ensure children arrive at school safely. Javier Briz, a parent at Darwin Elementary, organized a volunteer effort that saw around 40 people come forward to assist in monitoring immigration activity near schools. “It has been an awakening,” Briz remarked, as volunteers of all ages took to the streets to protect students.

For families like Maria in Albany Park, community initiatives have become essential. After her husband was detained, she felt compelled to send her daughter with a group of parents who formed a “walking school bus.” “At any moment they could be left behind,” Maria expressed, highlighting the fear that grips many immigrant families. Despite her worries, Maria’s daughter remains eager to attend school each day, demonstrating the resilience of young students amid uncertainty.

Student-led initiatives have also played a crucial role. Lia Sophia Lopez, a high school senior from Little Village, mobilized her classmates for a walkout protesting the immigration raids. The event drew hundreds of students, showcasing the collective determination among youth to advocate for their community. “I just remember feeling very happy to know that I was not the only one feeling hopeless and wanting change,” Lopez said.

In Logan Square, community organizations like Palenque LSNA have been instrumental in coordinating efforts to monitor immigration agents and distribute safety whistles to families. Coordinator Viviana Barajas noted the impressive resilience of parents and students who continue to prioritize education despite the threats. “They go to school and work because they still have to. They have to live their lives,” Barajas remarked.

School staff across the district have also played a significant role in addressing attendance issues. Many educators stand watch during drop-off and dismissal times, helping to create a secure environment for students. Some schools, such as Juarez High School in Pilsen, have implemented plans to support students who feel unsafe attending school. Teachers have developed online tutorials to enable students to keep up with their work while at home, ensuring that education does not come to a halt due to fear.

Despite these concerted efforts, concerns remain. Chicago Public Schools (CPS) officials have acknowledged that attendance patterns among Latino and English Learner students reflect more significant drops on certain days, although overall district attendance remains steady. CPS has allowed absences to be marked as excused for students who miss school to avoid immigration enforcement, but the lack of a remote learning option continues to be a pressing issue for many families.

As immigration agents withdraw for now, the community’s resolve has proven vital in safeguarding children’s education. Enriquez acknowledges the toll the ongoing situation has taken on local leaders. He emphasizes that the school district should have provided more robust support, including remote learning options for students impacted by immigration fears. He believes that clearer communication from CPS regarding the presence of federal agents would also help alleviate some of the anxiety felt by families.

The ongoing initiatives illustrate a profound community commitment to education, support, and safety. As Enriquez reflects on the impact of their efforts, he recalls the joy of a boy who returned to school after weeks of absence, excited to be back in class. “Can you imagine sitting in the house for three weeks?” he questioned, highlighting the importance of community resilience in challenging times.

As Chicago navigates the complexities of immigration enforcement, the dedication of community members remains a beacon of hope for families striving for stability and a brighter future for their children.