URGENT UPDATE: Protests outside the ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois, are escalating, with 80 arrests reported since early October, as demonstrators clash with state police enforcing strict protest regulations. This surge in arrests is raising alarms about the treatment of protesters under Governor JB Pritzker‘s administration, which has pledged to protect free speech.
Every Friday, 35-year-old Jackie Birov leads a spirited group of protesters near the ICE facility, denouncing federal immigration actions. However, on October 17, 2025, Birov was arrested amid chaos, describing a scene where officers “ushered people into the streets” before arresting them with batons. She faces charges of resisting arrest and disobeying a police officer.
Despite Pritzker’s promises to safeguard First Amendment rights, demonstrators claim the police response contradicts his assurances. At least three protesters have been charged with serious offenses including aggravated battery against officers, indicating a troubling trend in law enforcement’s approach to managing the protests.
The protests have become a focal point in the ongoing resistance to President Trump’s immigration policies, with Broadview emerging as a critical battleground. The Illinois State Police have implemented a Unified Command mission aimed at controlling the protests, a move that critics say has only fueled tensions. Over the past month, the police have made over 80 arrests, predominantly for resisting arrest, while allegations of excessive force during protests continue to mount.
“I think now [Illinois State Police] is the one deterring people from coming out,” said protester A’Keisha Lee, describing how fear of violent encounters is discouraging participation.
On October 2, state officials announced the establishment of designated protest zones, intended to allow demonstrators to express their views safely. However, as arrests continue, many feel their rights are being suppressed. The Cook County Sheriff’s Office has begun releasing details on the arrests, but much remains unclear about the context surrounding each incident.
In a troubling turn, a federal judge recently blocked the deployment of the National Guard in Chicago, citing the existing state police operations as sufficient for maintaining order. This indicates that local law enforcement is likely to remain a fixture in Broadview for the foreseeable future.
“There is a real disconnect between the stated purpose of the Unified Command and the violent force the Illinois State Police is using to repress free speech,” said civil rights attorney Joe DiCola. Observers have noted that the police response, including the use of pepper balls against protesters, raises significant concerns about civil liberties.
As the protests unfold, the emotional toll on participants is palpable. Birov, who continues to fight for her cause, expressed frustration over the government’s actions: “It’s really frustrating to see Pritzker say he’s on our side when he’s enabling ICE operations.”
Moving forward, the situation remains tense. The next protest is anticipated to draw even larger crowds, with activists determined to voice their concerns despite the risks. As arrests continue, it’s clear that the struggle over immigration enforcement and protesters’ rights in Broadview is far from over.
Stay tuned for updates as this developing story unfolds. The fight for free speech in Broadview is intensifying, and the eyes of the nation are watching.
