UPDATE: Tensions escalated outside the Broadview Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility on November 1, 2025, as faith leaders were denied entry yet again, sparking clashes with police during a protest. The event began with a somber Mass for All Saints Day and culminated in a chaotic costume protest, highlighting ongoing concerns about detainee access to spiritual care.
Local faith leaders, including longtime activist Sister JoAnn Persch, sought to enter the facility to offer Communion to detainees but were turned away by federal agents after their request was escalated to Illinois State Police. This marks the second failed attempt by the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership to gain access, raising alarms about the welfare of those inside.
“Our call for access has been ignored,” said Rev. Juan Vargas, an associate pastor involved in the effort. “We were denied entrance, but we still had our moment of spiritual communion with everyone who’s been detained.” More than 2,000 people attended the morning Mass, with approximately 800 individuals receiving the Eucharist, according to coalition representatives.
The Mass was marked by liturgical dancers and blessings for those affected by federal immigration raids. However, as the Mass concluded, tensions flared. Protesters, donning Halloween costumes, began a “Jericho walk” across designated crosswalks, aiming to disrupt ICE operations. “Every ICE agent that leaves this facility is going out into our community to disappear our neighbors off the streets,” organizer Rachel Cohen stated.
As the protest escalated, local police intervened, resulting in a chaotic scene. Officers from the Cook County Sheriff’s Police reported four arrests for disorderly conduct. Eyewitnesses recounted how police used pepper balls against demonstrators, with some protesters reportedly injured, including a journalist from Block Club Chicago.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Homeland Security noted that entry into the facility requires personal approval from Secretary Kristi Noem, raising questions about the treatment of detainees within the walls of the Broadview center. “What about the safety of the people who are there? They’re human as well,” Vargas argued.
Protesters maintained their stance, emphasizing the need for continued spiritual support for those inside the facility. As the situation unfolded, police warned attendees to disperse or face further action, including potential arrests. The clashes continued for hours, reflecting deep community unrest over immigration policies and detainee treatment.
The coalition plans to continue its efforts, advocating for access to the facility and calling attention to the plight of detainees. As they move forward, the community’s commitment to supporting those affected by immigration enforcement remains resolute, underscoring the urgent need for change in policies affecting vulnerable populations.
This developing story highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the Chicago area, with the next steps from both the coalition and law enforcement expected to unfold in the coming days.
