Chicago Southwest Side Community Rallies After ICE Detains Tamale Vendor

Laura Murillo, a well-known tamale vendor in Chicago's Back of the Yards neighborhood, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during a raid near a Home Depot store. Community members rallied at the location where she was arrested to sell tamales in her place, raising funds to support her family amid fears and challenges faced by street vendors. Murillo, who has lived in the U.S. for 20 years, owns a small restaurant and is a mother of four, with no known criminal record. Her family, supported by local organizers, is fighting for her release and has obtained legal representation, while setting up means for her to communicate from the detention facility where she is held. The incident has drawn attention to the impact of immigration enforcement on local communities and vendors, with advocates calling for solidarity and support. ICE and Border Patrol officials emphasized their commitment to preventing criminal aliens from establishing themselves, though Murillo's case has sparked significant public outcry and protest.