Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has proposed a referendum that would seek reparations for communities affected by recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in the city.
The measure, approved by the City Council, would ask voters whether Chicago should pursue all lawful means to recover funds from the federal government for economic harms caused by the Trump administration’s Operation Midway Blitz.
Johnson highlighted the severe impact of the raids, citing instances of violent tactics such as chokeholds, tear gas, and forced vehicle transport that left residents feeling unsafe and traumatized.
He described the proposal as a pathway to accountability that aligns with earlier executive orders aimed at protecting immigrant communities from aggressive enforcement actions.
Under the plan, the city would seek compensation for costs including lost tax revenue, public safety responses, and services provided to residents directly affected by the raids.
Johnson has repeatedly criticized ICE enforcement tactics as deceptive and abusive, stating that Chicago would not comply with operations that compromise community safety.
The reparations agenda has sparked online backlash, with some critics labeling the initiative as racist and illegal, reflecting the broader national debate over immigration and reparations policies.
The referendum will appear on the ballot, giving voters the opportunity to decide whether Chicago should pursue these claims against the federal government.
