Overview
- Residents citywide now carry plastic and metal whistles to signal the presence of ICE or CBP, drawing observers and alerting at-risk neighbors.
- Organizers have mass-distributed the devices through shops, festivals, and “whistlemania” trainings that include kits with Know Your Rights materials and usage protocols.
- In recent incidents, whistles prompted a convoy of federal vehicles to leave a North Side garage, yet in Albany Park two detainees were still taken despite a crowd gathering.
- The Trump administration’s September crackdown deployed hundreds of agents and has used aggressive tactics including teargas, helicopter rappels, and shootings, according to reporting.
- DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin said officers are highly trained and not afraid of loud noises, while local groups continue expanding trainings, with suburban events reported in planning.