Chicago, IL – Protests led by illegal immigrants demanding work permits, housing, and government assistance turned tense this week as police in multiple cities deployed bomb squads in response to unspecified threats. Demonstrations in Chicago, Denver, and Los Angeles have intensified, with clashes reported between protesters, law enforcement, and frustrated residents.
Chicago: Migrants Occupy Police Station, Bomb Squad Called After Suspicious Package Found
In Chicago, dozens of illegal immigrants staged a sit-in at a South Side police precinct, refusing to leave until the city provided permanent housing. The protest took a dramatic turn when officers discovered a suspicious unattended package, prompting the Chicago Police Department to deploy its bomb squad as a precaution.
“We are here peacefully, but we will not be ignored,” shouted one Venezuelan migrant. “If the city won’t help us, we have no choice but to make our voices heard.”
Authorities later confirmed the package was not explosive, but the incident underscored rising tensions. Chicago has struggled to house thousands of migrants, with many sleeping in police stations and temporary shelters. Mayor Brandon Johnson faces mounting criticism as federal aid remains stalled in Congress.
Denver: Protesters Block Government Building, Police on High Alert
In Denver, over 200 migrants surrounded a federal immigration office, demanding faster work permits. Denver Police, already stretched thin from months of migrant arrivals, deployed riot control units after some protesters began blocking traffic.
The situation escalated when an unidentified individual allegedly made threats, leading officers to call in the bomb squad to sweep the area. No explosives were found, but the heavy police presence signaled growing unease.
“We just want to work legally,” said a Honduran migrant. “But instead of helping us, they treat us like criminals.”
Denver has spent over $160 million on migrant care, but officials warn resources are drying up.
Los Angeles: Shelter Protest Turns Volatile, Bomb Squad Responds
In Los Angeles, migrants living in a crowded shelter near downtown clashed with security over poor conditions. The protest turned chaotic when someone called in a bomb threat, forcing LAPD to evacuate the area and dispatch the arson/explosives unit.
“This place is a nightmare—no space, no privacy, no respect,” said a Guatemalan woman. “We didn’t come here to live like this.”
While the threat was later deemed not credible, the incident highlighted the desperation of migrants stuck in limbo. LA Mayor Karen Bass has pledged more funding, but with California’s budget crisis, solutions remain uncertain.
National Backlash: Calls for Border Crackdown Grow Louder
The protests—and the bomb squad responses—have fueled the national debate over immigration. Critics argue the Biden administration’s policies have overwhelmed cities without providing real solutions.
“This is unsustainable,” said Rep. Tom McClintock (R-CA). “Open borders, no vetting, and now cities are dealing with chaos.”
Meanwhile, immigrant advocates blame Congressional gridlock for the crisis. “These people are fleeing violence and poverty,” said Maria Juarez of the National Immigration Forum. “Instead of fearmongering, we need real reform.”
As the 2024 election nears, the protests—and the police responses—may foreshadow even bigger clashes ahead.
What’s your take? Should the U.S. speed up work permits or tighten border security? Sound off in the comments.
Reporter
