President-elect Trump’s administration plans a large-scale immigration raid in Chicago commencing the day after his inauguration, involving 100-200 ICE officers and lasting a week, according to the Wall Street Journal. While a source denies a Chicago-specific focus, the incoming administration intends to significantly increase nationwide immigration enforcement. Incoming border czar Tom Homan has explicitly threatened legal action against Chicago officials obstructing the operation. This action reflects Trump’s campaign promise of initiating the largest domestic deportation effort in US history.
Read More
First Grace UMC in New Orleans provided sanctuary to Jose, an asylum seeker facing deportation despite legal standing, for nearly a year. During this time, Jose contributed to the church community while his legal case progressed. Ultimately, ICE decided not to deport him, and he is now on the path to citizenship. The church’s actions highlight the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals in sacred spaces, contrasting with proposed policies that would allow immigration enforcement in such locations. This underscores a moral imperative to treat all individuals with compassion and dignity, regardless of immigration status.
Read More
Moscow police conducted raids on at least three LGBTQ+ bars and nightclubs, arresting the director of an LGBTQ+-focused travel agency. These actions, reported by state media, coincided with the anniversary of the Supreme Court’s ban on the “international LGBT movement.” The raids cited “combating LGBT propaganda” as justification, with social media footage showing police apprehending patrons. Authorities also alleged illegal alcohol sales at one establishment.
Read More
Following reports from the Telegram channel “Ostorozhno, Moskva,” Moscow police conducted raids within the Tchaikovsky Moscow State Conservatory’s dormitory, issuing military summonses to students. One student, Daniil, recounted a surprise early morning detention, where police lacked proper identification and escorted him and others to the enlistment office. After a seven-hour detainment, Daniil was released with a summons for the following Monday but was left without his passport. The incident highlights the abrupt and potentially coercive methods used to fulfill Russia’s military mobilization efforts.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker