Speaker Welch and Rep. Lilian Jimenez Discuss Impact of ICE Raids with Business Owners
CHICAGO – Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and state Rep. Lilian Jimenez brought together small business owners, service providers, and civic organizations to discuss the challenges employers and communities are facing due to Donald Trump’s unconstitutional raids. The roundtable discussion at Rincon Family Services was part of Welch’s statewide listening tour, which has included stops in the city of Chicago, downstate, and throughout the suburbs.
“The terror Donald Trump has brought to communities across our state and across our country is felt far and wide. In every community I’ve visited, I hear how lifelong citizens and new Americans alike have had to reconsider even the most basic daily activities. I hear from people who fear going to work or going to the store,” Welch said. “In Illinois, House Democrats are committed to taking charge of what we can control. That starts with the new protections we’ve enacted for people in places where all people should feel safe—and that continues by working with local businesses to address the unique challenges they are facing due to Trump’s rogue administration.”
Welch and Jimenez led the discussion with Community leaders and business owners, giving them an opportunity to discuss how Trump’s Operation Midway Blitz caused many businesses to close, lose employees and customers.
This fall, Welch and Jimenez enacted a new law protecting people from Trump’s raids at day care centers, court houses, hospitals, and college campuses. The law also empowered every resident to sue agents who violate their rights.
“The small businesses that make up our community are what help our districts thrive,” said Jiménez. “They are the soul of the communities we live in as they drive up the economy, create new local jobs, provide local goods and services and maintain the culture of our neighborhoods. Roundtables like this allow us as leaders in the community to answer questions, address concerns and propose solutions to growing issues.”
