CHICAGO – State Senator Celina Villanueva (D-Chicago) condemned the latest wave of federal aggression in Little Village, where agents returned to terrorize the community with tear gas and arbitrary abductions:

“Our neighborhoods continue to be invaded, this time with chemical weapons, as federal agents fired tear gas at residents and protesters, creating panic, confusion and harm. This is not law enforcement: it is violence.

“They are snatching people without warrants, without due process, acting as judge and captor in the street. They are dragging people into vans, including documented citizens, with no regard for the law or the constitution. These acts are unconstitutional and terroristic by design.

“Our neighbors should not be treated like combatants in their own homes. Children should not wake up to explosions of gas in their streets. Families should not fear that walking to the store or standing on their block could lead to abduction and violence.

“Let me be clear: these actions are unconstitutional, unlawful and inhumane. Agents are operating with zero regard for civil rights or the Constitution. I stand with Governor Pritzker in demanding transparency and accountability. The creation of the Illinois Accountability Commission is a critical step to document these abuses, expose the truth and hold those responsible to account.

“To residents: my office stands with you. If you, your loved one or your neighbor is facing an encounter with federal immigration agents, please call ICIRR’s Family Support Network for assistance at 855-435-7693.

“This community will not submit to fear. Rather, we will force justice on this abuse of power.”