Chicago police had to intervene when residents swarmed an alderwoman during a protest against the construction of a migrant camp involving tents on a vacant city block.
Residents said they were not warned about the construction of the camp beforehand and that they found out about it from a news report.
“Our alderwoman didn’t let us know. There were no notices. There was nothing in the mail. We felt very stabbed in the back,” said Jacquelyn Zuniga, a resident of Brighton Park.
They also claimed that even though there was a scheduled hearing to talk about the tent plan, the camp would have been completed already by the time residents had a chance to oppose it.
News video from WBBM-TV showed Ald. Julia Ramirez be surrounded by protesters who press their protest signs against her. An aide protected her from protesters before police were able to arrive to escort the official away from the scene.
The aide, described only as a 21-year-old male, reportedly went to a hospital to seek treatment after the incident.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson described the incident as an “unconscionable” and “violent attack” on Ramirez.
“Any violent act against an elected official in our city is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms,” said the mayor. “My office and the Chicago Police Department are investigating this incident, and we will provide updates as they become available.”
Ramirez also released a statement explaining what happened.
“I wanted to engage directly with my community to address misinformation being spread about my involvement in the plan, and how we should move forward as a community. After having a few conversations, it became clear that most of the protesters did not want to engage in a peaceful dialogue with me. It was a truly disappointing experience,” she said in the statement.
“I understand residents are fearful and have concerns about the city’s plan. I have the same concerns,” she continued. “I hear my residents and want them to know I will always advocate for their safety and ensure our communities have the resources they deserve. I also respect everyone’s right to peacefully protest however violence and hate is not the answer.”
She said the aide was not harmed. Ramirez went on to call on the mayor to re-evaluate whether a tent encampment for migrants is appropriate at the disputed site.
Republican state governors have forced the migrant crisis onto Democrat state governors who had previously lauded themselves as pro-immigrant and “sanctuary” states for illegal aliens. After migrants were bused to these cities and states, some Democrats are calling for help from the federal government.
Here’s the local news report about the incident:
Alderwoman swarmed by protesters upset with migrant tent planwww.youtube.com
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