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* From Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson…
“I learned today that an alderwoman and an aide, while attempting to meet with constituents, were victims of a physical attack by area residents. My administration supports the right to peaceful protest and free speech, but this type of action against a public servant is unconscionable.
Any violent act against an elected official in our city is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms. My office and the Chicago Police Department are currently investigating this incident, and we will provide updates as they become available.”
* Block Club Chicago…
Police had to whisk an alderperson to safety Thursday during a heated protest about the city’s plan to build a tent encampment for migrants at a Southwest Side lot. […]
Nearly 100 protesters gathered Thursday morning to voice opposition to the city’s plans for the site near 38th Street and California Avenue, saying officials haven’t notified them properly about the proposed camp or taken their input into consideration.
Ald. Julia Ramirez (12th), whose ward includes the site, was swarmed by protesters when she arrived. People threw signs in her face and screamed, and police officers worked to break up the crowd.
Eventually, officers escorted the alderwoman away, helping her get into a car so she could leave. […]
One protester’s sign read, “We don’t want your migrants in Brighton park nor McKinley Park.”
Neighbor Jacquelyn Zuniga said she and others feel “stabbed in the back” by the city’s lack of notice about the tent plan.
* Pics and video…
NOW: Dozens of frustrated Brighton Park residents are protesting @ 38/California, where the city is planning to build a "base camp" for asylum seekers.#OnAssignment for @BlockClubCHI
Latest: Migrant Tent Camp Planned For Brighton Park Lot, Officials Say https://t.co/Em7bsuxCi9 pic.twitter.com/D9iBx8S0dw
— Colin Boyle (@colinbphoto) October 19, 2023
NOW: Ald. Julia Ramirez (12th), whose ward has the planned tent site, arrived & was immediately encompassed by screaming protesters. The situation got so tense that CPD broke up the crowd and put the Alderwoman + her staffer in a squad car & left.#OnAssignment for @BlockClubCHI pic.twitter.com/GveV2vaCDr
— Colin Boyle (@colinbphoto) October 19, 2023
If you watch the video, you’ll see the CPD did a good job of evacuating Ald. Ramirez.
That neighborhood is about 80 percent Latino.
* More context from WTTW…
A community meeting on the proposal is set to take place at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 24, at Kelly High School, 4136 S. California Ave. In a letter sent to 12th Ward residents Monday, Ramirez warned that it may already be a done deal – whether or not she objects.
The Brighton Park lot at 38th Street and California Avenue is owned by the Harvey-based Sanchez Group, said Ramirez, who also said the firm responded to a request for proposals issued by Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office seeking locations to set up temporary shelters for the more than 18,500 migrants sent to Chicago from the southern border.
“I also want you to be open minded and not buy into the fearmongering and false information spread by right-wing, anti-immigrant voices who wish to divide our city,” Ramirez wrote on Monday. “We are a nation of immigrants and people that are fleeing economic and political turmoil deserve an opportunity for a better life in this country.”
More than 3,769 migrants are living in police stations across the city and at O’Hare International Airport with another 11,334 migrants living in city shelters as of Thursday morning, according to city data. Johnson has said the crisis was caused by “right-wing extremists bent on sowing chaos and division in our city.”
…Adding… Chuy García…
Today, Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) released the following statement following threats of violence towards 12th Ward Alderwoman Julia Ramirez at a Brighton Park protest:
“Earlier today, Alderwoman Julia Ramirez and an aide were physically attacked while trying to meet with constituents. All people have a right to peacefully protest and make their concerns known, but we can never tolerate violence towards elected officials and their staff.”
…Adding… Ald. Ramirez…
“Today my staff and I went to meet with 12th Ward residents protesting Mayor Johnson’s plan to construct a temporary shelter for migrants at 38th and California. Residents contacted my office this week and asked that I attend to hear their concerns. I wanted to engage directly with my community to address misinformation being spread about my involvement in the plan, and how we should move forward as a community.
“After having a few conversations, it became clear that most of the protesters did not want to engage in peaceful dialogue with me. It was truly a disappointing experience.
“As I was leaving the protest, a group of protesters surrounded me and my staffer and began assaulting us. Fortunately I’m okay, however my staffer was taken to the hospital and is in good condition.
“I understand residents are fearful and have concerns about the city’s plan. I have the same concerns. I’m a born and raised resident of Brighton Park. I ran for Alderwoman so that I could be in a position to address the years of disinvestment in my community. I hear my residents and want them to know I will always advocate for their safety and ensure our communities have the resources they deserve. I also respect everyone’s right to peacefully protest, however violence and hate is not the answer.
“I hope to continue to build bridges across the different communities in the 12th Ward as we address this crisis in a humane and compassionate way. Brighton Park should be a welcoming community to both existing residents and new arrivals.
“I call on the mayor’s office for more transparency, accountability and more local involvement in the decision-making process, to explore more options for establishing the permanent shelters, and reevaluate if tents are an appropriate solution at this site.”
*** UPDATE 1 *** Sen. Villanueva…
State Senator Celina Villanueva (D – Chicago) released the following statement after learning of the assault of Alderwomen Julia Ramirez and her aide during a protest in the 12th Senate District as they were discussing the new construction of a migrant tent city with local residents:
“I am appalled to learn of the physical attack against Alderwoman Ramirez and an aide as they met with local residents to hear concerns regarding the construction of a shelter for asylum seekers. While I support peaceful protest and freedom of speech, violence is unacceptable.”
*** UPDATE 2 *** Gov. Pritzker…
https://t.co/PM1oceUKkV pic.twitter.com/GPXb7caUze
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) October 19, 2023
posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 12:37 pm
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Has anyone else thought that CTU, who openly said it’s their job to champion social issues outside of education, has been oddly silent on the migrant issue? A cynic might think that they’re worried if Johnson spends too much money on housing the migrants it’s going to effect school board races or just generally put a lot more scruitiny on the city’s budget and property taxes.
Comment by lake county democrat Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 12:46 pm
Ramirez blaming right wing media is definition of a liberal not knowing how to govern nor work the levers of city government.
Welcome to reality Mayor Johnson.
Comment by Almost the Weekend Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 12:48 pm
I’ll say this about Chicago, that is the most diverse anti-immigrant crowd I have ever seen. NIMBY absolutely trumps Identity Politics.
Comment by Candy Dogood Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 12:49 pm
=Has anyone else thought that CTU…=
Not me. What are they suppose to do? Invade Venezuela?
Comment by James of Chicago Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:07 pm
The mayor needs to roll out a plan explaining how they landed on this site. What other sites will be open. And how long these sites will remain open. People want information in the midst of a crisis. There is a reason people are now turning to Governor Pritzker for leadership.
Mayor Johnson’s press team has led misinformation run rampant and their passive approach is exploding in their face. The mayor needs to lead and be the mayor we elected him to be. No more silence. No more excuses about him being a father. And no more photos with celebrities. Mayor, turn this ship around!
Comment by DisappointedVoter Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:10 pm
And someone please explain why the mayor is sending alderpeople to do his work? He should be there alongside of the alderwoman. No border trips. The fight is here.
Comment by DisappointedVoter Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:14 pm
==Invade Venezuela?==
I mean the CTU quite famously sent a delegation to Venezuela so…..
Comment by wowie Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:14 pm
Who’s the Mensa member who thought of tent camps in Chicago with winter approaching. What could possibly go wrong?
Comment by Jeery Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:21 pm
James - actually they indeed took an active interest in Venezuela a few years back, but to your question: they could do what they do elsewhere: for example, show up at these meetings advocating for the migrants to be allowed to live in vacant schools and other places.
Comment by lake county democrat Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:22 pm
These are very visible consequences for the failure in leadership on this issue. As if people freezing in cold tents isn’t enough maybe this will be a wake up call for everyone.
When is JB’s CVS promised shelter opening? That should have happened the Monday after that tit for tat with the Mayor’s Office.
Comment by Sonny Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:23 pm
I agree with disappointed voter. ROll out a plan. “We are going to tHese 10 locations.” And the weather has turned on tent cities. Abandoned churches, schools. Get to work.What a failure for the Mayor. Everyone needs to quit talking about getting federal money and get to work.
Comment by James the Intolerant Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:24 pm
white people NIMBYs are saying told ya as they watch the diverse NIMBY crowd object. I’m with the Gov whose cry to Biden will be replicated unless the Feds offer more consistent ideas and assistance. what are you doing VP?
Comment by Amalia Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:29 pm
Incomplete assignment unless the mayor grades on the curve
Comment by Rabid Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:31 pm
==I’ll say this about Chicago, that is the most diverse anti-immigrant crowd I have ever seen.==
“Anti-immigrant” is an oversimplification of the issue. When things like this happen across the city in the most diverse neighborhoods, we need to think a little deeper here. I’ve noticed three things that people are upset about: 1. Lack of a wraparound plan; 2. How long/timing; and 3. Why are these new arrivals being given so much more resources than us? I’ve heard the third most in heavily immigrant communities.
These are all within the Mayors realm of control and communication. Shame on his office for not being better on the issue and getting in front of it.
Comment by LastModDemStanding Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:34 pm
== No border trips.==
He didn’t go to the border
Comment by wowie Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:35 pm
== Invade Venezuela? ==
Turns out, CTU has had a Venezuela policy in place for a few years:
https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/breaking/ct-chicago-teachers-union-venezuela-trip-20190819-tbpa3lhjifduxgupdxfs3mosr4-story.html
Comment by TNR Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:35 pm
121pm is me. Big fingers, tiny keyboard syndrome.
Comment by Jerry Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:36 pm
==Has anyone else thought that CTU, who openly said it’s their job to champion social issues outside of education, has been oddly silent on the migrant issue?==
Considering affordable housing was one of CTU’s contract demands in 2019, it is odd but not unexpected.
Comment by City Zen Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:42 pm
Ironic that most of the protestors look like former……migrants.
Comment by allknowingmasterofraccoondom Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:57 pm
=Everyone needs to quit talking about getting federal money and get to work.=
THIS ^^
As been said by many before, this is the kind of issue to be expected when activist types are put into office. Much harder to lead/execute after you’re conditioned to be in attack mode.
Comment by LastModDemStanding Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 1:59 pm
===Everyone needs to quit talking about getting federal money and get to work===
They need to be doing both. Constantly.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:00 pm
I agree with LastModDem 100%.
Especially the point that city residents are wondering “Why are these new arrivals being given so much more resources than us?”
Anyone who has been involved with Chicago politics knows that this is the most important issue to address to constituents. Mayor Johnson’s treatment not trauma mantra sounded good to voters when they thought it applied to them. Now they feel like they will be left behind in favor of migrants. The narrative, or lack thereof, from the Mayor’s office has further fanned the flames.
The City Council members that have spoken on this topic haven’t really done themselves any favors either. It’s really a fascinating dynamic, but one that needs to be re-directed into something productive.
Its not about being anti-immigrant. Its about personally feeling left out or left behind. That is the issue that the Mayor and Aldermen and Alderwomen need to address.
Comment by Paul V Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:05 pm
Hugo Chavez’s revenge…in the form of unintended consequences.
Comment by Dotnonymous x Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:23 pm
==fearmongering and false information spread by right-wing, anti-immigrant voices==
Oh, honey, those are not right-wingers you see protesting in South Shore, Austin, Woodlawn, Galewood and Brighton Park. But sure, you go right ahead with that laughable narrative.
Comment by HLV Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:33 pm
===Oh, honey, those are not===
OK, first, mocking someone who was just physically attacked is a bannable offense.
Second, nobody said the protesters were right-wingers.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:34 pm
=The mayor needs to lead and be the mayor we elected him to be. =
I’m not sure I see anything in the mayor’s past or present efforts that suggests he can meet this need. Much like his predecessor the mayor’s promise is confronted with the reality of a really difficult job.
Comment by Pundent Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:36 pm
=I’ll say this about Chicago, that is the most diverse anti-immigrant crowd I have ever seen. NIMBY absolutely trumps Identity Politics.=
we need to stop giving them a pass and call this what it really is..ignorance, entitlement, bigotry and racism. Just because they are a diverse crowd does not mean they are not guilty of all of those things.
Historically, large influxes of any immigrant group always gets these reaction. You would think that in 250 years we could learn to be better.
Johnsons mismanagement is blowing a golden opportunity to reinvigorate Chicago’s population and employment market.
Comment by JS Mill Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:37 pm
If anyone can say use the empty schools it would be CTU.
They are the most vocal advocacy group in Chicago and have put many aldermen plus the current mayor into office. They have won multiple strikes against multiple mayors. If they flood every town hall with teachers and talk about social impact blah blah blah at least then the aldermen would feel supported.
Right now the aldermen are going it alone with just the mayor’s staff. Has the mayor gone to one town hall in any neighborhood, that was contentious, proposing a shelter?
SDG has been super quiet since the whole private school deal popped off about a month and a half ago.
Comment by Frida's boss Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:40 pm
===“Anti-immigrant” is an oversimplification===
When the protest becomes a mob they can expect their message to be reduced to the common denominator.
Comment by Candy Dogood Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:58 pm
=== I mean the CTU quite famously sent a delegation to Venezuela so…..===
They actually didn’t, so….
“President Jesse Sharkey said: ‘Members go all kinds of places in the summer. This was neither an official trip nor something that was funded by the union. This is a group of people who are members of the CTU who decided to go to Venezuela.’”
Comment by 17% Solution Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 2:59 pm
===When the protest becomes a mob they can expect their message to be reduced to the common denominator. ===
Exactly right.
Comment by Rich Miller Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 3:15 pm
==He didn’t go to the border==
He sent staff and has spent resources on the trip. He is going to have to answer why staff was in Texas rather than working here or being at the site alongside the alderwoman.
Comment by DisappointedVoter Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 3:44 pm
Mayor Johnson’s incompetence has hit a new low. His inability to communicate with his alderpeople, including his allies have now gotten one of his closest allies in physical harm. If Lori did this they would have shut down Logan Square with DSA protesters.
Comment by Ucci Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 3:52 pm
=He is going to have to answer why staff was in Texas rather than working here or being at the site alongside the alderwoman.=
It’s not an either or proposition. He can and should do both.
Comment by Pundent Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 4:10 pm
- Oh, honey, those are not right-wingers you see protesting in South Shore, Austin, Woodlawn, Galewood and Brighton Park. -
I lived in Brighton Park for 3 years and while the majority of the people I met were uninterested in politics and very decent people, I met plenty of racists and right wingers. Being a minority does not automatically make you a leftist or a liberal.
Comment by Excitable Boy Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 4:17 pm
I hope the mayor issues similar statements to support regular working persons who have been the victim of a crime.
Comment by Rachel Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 4:50 pm
Rich said it the other day the louder you are the quicker Johnson and his team bail out. They’ve now given up Amundsen Park Fieldhouse as a location. Will they do the same here?
Back in the day, the mayor would not allow anyone, even his enemies to get assaulted by a mob. It’s one thing for just a random deal but a protest/mob attacking an alderman?
And there will be no consequences.
If there were consequences to occur they didn’t push people away from her and start arresting people they just covered her up and ushered her to the car to get her out of there. Strong talk but weak action. Still this late in the day and no arrests. Assault of Alderman acceptable-check.
Comment by Frida's boss Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 5:08 pm
Was kinda waiting on who and what those who would say.
I concur with Pritzker, those words can speak for me, along with all others condemning.
Comment by Oswego Willy Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 5:32 pm
Sooner or later, the Johnson administration is going to realize that huge centralized emcampments are not the answer, and look to house these families with host families, in single family apartments, and in other smaller settings.
Comment by Thomas Paine Thursday, Oct 19, 23 @ 6:10 pm