Protest erupts in Chicago, residents outraged over Mayor's migrant tent proposal due to dangers
Hundreds of upset residents gathered in Brighton Park, Chicago, on Friday to voice their opposition to Mayor Brandon Johnson's proposal to establish winterized tents for housing 2,000 migrants in an empty parking lot.
Brighton Park, known for its historical role as a haven for immigrants, became the focal point of concern as residents expressed worry about the potential impact of accommodating thousands of migrants. The protesters conveyed a sense of frustration, believing that their concerns were not being adequately addressed by politicians.
Among the demonstrators was Ruth Diaz, a Mexican American resident with 33 years in Brighton Park. Holding a sign that read, "Protejan nuestra comunidad. Protect our community," Diaz highlighted her concerns about migrants receiving benefits without contributing to society. She emphasized the hard work she invested in sending her daughter to nursing school and questioned why migrants appeared to be receiving preferential treatment.
The protest coincided with the city's ongoing environmental assessment to determine the safety of the proposed property for human habitation. Mayor Johnson had signed a six-month, $548,400 land use contract on Oct. 26 for the location at the corner of 38th Street and California. However, a final decision is pending the outcome of the environmental study.
Controversy surrounds the ownership of the Brighton Park site, owned by Barnacres Corp., led by Otoniel "Tony" Sanchez. The involvement of Sanchez, a donor to Mayor Johnson's political fund, raised ethical questions. Johnson's campaign announced the return of $46,500 in campaign contributions following an investigation revealing donations from city contractors against ethics rules.
Bill Neidhardt, political adviser to Mayor Johnson, asserted that the contribution from Sanchez had no influence on the site decision. He clarified that the decision was based on a standard analysis conducted by city personnel, unaware of the donation.
The situation deepened with the revelation of Sanchez's ties to MAT Asphalt, a company led by Michael Tadin Jr., son of a prominent city contractor, Michael Tadin. The elder Tadin had associations with former Mayor Richard M. Daley and faced legal issues related to the city's Hired Truck Program.
As the controversy unfolds, Johnson's administration grapples with the urgent need to find housing solutions for over 2,500 migrants in and around police stations and O'Hare International Airport. With 25 active shelters in vacant buildings and migrants arriving daily from border cities, the administration faces increasing pressure to address the housing crisis.
Ald. Julia Ramirez, 12th Ward, expressed dissatisfaction, stating she was not notified about the lease for the site in her ward. City construction activities at the proposed site since October have heightened tensions, leading to ongoing demonstrations against the tent proposal.
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