Overview

• DHS publicly launched an enforcement surge labeled Operation Midway Blitz, with the Trump administration dispatching National Guard troops and ICE agents and stating the focus is on “criminal illegal aliens.”
• El Grito Chicago’s downtown Grant Park festival remains postponed, but a condensed El Grito will now be held Sept. 15 at St. Paul Catholic Church in Pilsen.
• Neighborhood and nearby-city events are proceeding under precautions, including Little Village’s 26th Street parade and East Chicago’s long-running parade, while some suburban festivities were canceled or delayed.
• Community groups and faith leaders report widespread fear and have expanded Know Your Rights outreach, legal resources, livestream options and volunteer safety teams.
• Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Chicago officials criticized the timing of the federal action, and downtown aldermen warned residents to expect traffic control measures and potential street closures tied to caravan activity.