January 13 Updates
National
HB29 passed its first legislative hurdle in the Senate on Friday with Yes votes from both Durbin and Duckworth. Senate Dems have an additional shot to filibuster on Tuesday. We need to ramp up calls and emails into both Senators offices until 4pm on Monday. Please call Sen Durbin and Duckworth's DC offices with the following message: I am calling as an Illinois resident to urge the Senator to VOTE NO on cloture on HR29. A yes vote supports Trump's mass deportation agenda. Durbin: 202-224-2152 | Duckworth: 202-224-2854.
Updates from the border:
There is an 80% chance of being deported if you come in without using CBP1 app
Mexico is building a 15,000 person holding area in Tijuana for deportees
We are still seeing people with positive credible fear interviews being held in detention and not released
Different detention centers have different requirements for sponsors to meet (just a name and address vs letter and proof of ability to sponsor individual, etc)
We are anticipating the border to be closed once Trump takes office, as well as attempts to slow down or block new asylum applications. All hands on deck this week in preparation for inauguration and what is to come. If you know someone who has not yet filed for legal status, please get in touch ASAP.
Local
Alderman Ray Lopez has introduced amendments to the city's Welcome City Ordinance (WCO), that would allow CPS to collaborate with ICE in some cases. The vote on the amendments is expected to take place at next Wednesday's city council meeting.
CALLS TO ACTION:
Put calls into your Alder's offices with the following message: Ald. Lopez’s attempt to change the Welcoming City Ordinance is dangerous to all Chicago residents, and support's Trump's deportation agenda. I strongly urge you to vote NO on any WCO amendments.
City Council Meeting: City Council will be held at City Hall on Wednesday 1/15. We are asking folks to arrive at 7:30am in order to attend the City Council meeting in anticipation of a high turnout. We are anticipating Ald Raymond Lopez to bring the amendment to the floor during the council meeting.