Chicago, IL – Today, federal agents apprehended Alderwoman Jessie Fuentes while she was performing her duties as an elected official. This action by ICE agents comes on the heels of yesterday’s raid that involved a military helicopter and multiple reports of abuse of power by federal agents in Chicago, IL. In response, Roberto Valdez Jr., Midwest Regional Director of Hispanic Federation released the following statement:
“Hispanic Federation condemns the continued intimidation tactics by ICE and federal authorities against Chicago’s Latino and immigrant communities. The apprehension of 26th Ward Alderwoman Jessie Fuentes, an elected Latina leader and member of the LGBTQ+ community, for simply requesting lawful proof of a warrant, coupled with the militarized raid of an apartment building, displays a dangerous abuse of power and a direct assault on our civil rights.
We cannot stand by while families are terrorized in their own homes and elected officials are targeted for doing their jobs. Dragging U.S. citizens from their apartments in the dead of night is not only illegal, it is fundamentally un-American. These actions betray our values and endanger our democracy. Our country deserves better.
We know that silence in the face of attacks on our community and elected officials sets a dangerous precedent, one in which our community’s rights are trampled on and voices smothered. Alderwoman Fuentes took a bold stand by asking a question and Hispanic Federation stands in solidarity with the Alderwoman as well as with every family living under this climate of fear. We will not be intimidated. We will continue to fight for justice, dignity, and accountability. Our communities deserve nothing less.”
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About Hispanic Federation:
Hispanic Federation (HF) is a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization, founded in 1990, committed to empowering and advancing the Hispanic community, with a focus on low-income, marginalized, and immigrant Latinos. With programs in 40 states, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, HF’s focus areas include immigration, economic empowerment, civic engagement, disaster relief, philanthropy, education, health, and the environment. HF also maintains ongoing public education campaigns and meets the organizational development needs of its member agencies through grant-making and capacity-building assistance.
