Chicago Mayor Defends 'Open' Approach to Illegal Immigrants Amid Migrant Surge

Mayor Brandon Johnson's op-ed highlights Chicago's efforts to address the influx of undocumented immigrants, drawing criticism from some community members.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has defended his city's approach to illegal immigration, arguing that its welcoming stance has allowed it to effectively manage the surge of undocumented immigrants arriving in recent years.

In an op-ed published in the Chicago Sun-Times, Johnson highlighted the city's efforts to provide shelter, healthcare, and education to undocumented immigrants, while also taking steps to address the underlying causes of migration.

"Chicago has been open and quite accommodating to illegal immigrants in comparison to other blue cities," Johnson wrote. "We have cleared women and children from sleeping on airport and police district floors, returned Chicago Park District facilities to communities, and cut our shelter population by 50%."

Johnson's administration has faced criticism from some community members for its focus on assisting undocumented immigrants at a time when the city is grappling with other pressing issues. The mayor has defended his approach, arguing that investing in immigrant communities ultimately benefits the entire city.

"We are reopening mental health clinics and increasing resources for victims and survivors of crime," Johnson said. "I look forward to another year of working with everyone to create safety, unity, and prosperity in the greatest freaking city in the world."

The influx of undocumented immigrants into Chicago has been driven in part by the so-called "border crisis" at the U.S.-Mexico border. Republican governors in Texas and Arizona have been sending buses of asylum seekers to Democrat-controlled cities, including Chicago, in an effort to pressure the federal government to address the issue.

Johnson has accused Republican governors of "attacking" Democratically-run cities and "Black leaders." He has also called on President Joe Biden to do more to secure the border and provide a humane and comprehensive solution to the migration crisis.

"This is unconscionable," Johnson said of the Republican governors' actions. "It’s reckless, raggedy, and evil-spirited."

The mayor's approach to illegal immigration has drawn both praise and criticism. Some community leaders have commended Johnson for his willingness to address the issue head-on, while others have expressed concerns about the potential costs and unintended consequences of his policies.

"We need that money in my neighborhood, we need that money on my block," one Black woman said at a City Council meeting. "So I’m asking ya’ll to use our tax money for our people, we need it."

Despite the challenges, Johnson remains committed to his vision of Chicago as a welcoming and inclusive city. He believes that by addressing the root causes of migration and investing in immigrant communities, Chicago can emerge stronger and more prosperous than ever before.

"Let us go forward, Chicago," Johnson said. "Together."