Illinois Officials Establish Designated Protest Zone Outside Broadview ICE Facility Amid Tensions

New safety measures have been implemented outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Broadview, Illinois, including the creation of designated protest zones and the installation of concrete barriers to separate protesters from the facility. A temporary unified command involving Illinois State Police, Cook County Sheriff's Office, and other agencies coordinates these efforts to ensure public safety while allowing peaceful protests and maintaining vehicle access. Officials stress that their operation respects First Amendment rights without interfering with federal immigration enforcement. Protesters and advocates, including attorney Robert Held, have criticized the establishment of a "First Amendment zone," arguing it restricts their rights and accusing ICE of unlawful actions against peaceful demonstrators. Despite these concerns, the barriers aim to reduce confrontations and maintain order amid ongoing protests against ICE operations. The measures reflect a balance between facilitating free expression and ensuring community safety around the detention center.