Federal Agents' Visit Sparks Outcry at Chicago Puerto Rican Museum

A surprising and unannounced visit by approximately 15 unmarked Homeland Security agents to Chicago's National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture has sparked widespread condemnation from local leaders and community members. The agents, who refused to show identification or a warrant, occupied the museum's private parking lot for about two hours, surveyed the premises, and discussed upcoming Latino cultural festivals, raising fears of intimidation aimed at undocumented attendees. Museum staff asked the agents to leave, but they reportedly continued to walk around the property, further escalating tensions and concerns about federal overreach and violation of legal boundaries. Aldermen Anthony Quezada and Jessie Fuentes strongly criticized the incident as a deliberate scare tactic meant to intimidate the community, emphasizing their rejection of such actions and pledging to resist. The museum and local officials are preparing for upcoming events like the Barrio Arts Festival and Colombian Fest, assuring attendees that security measures will be in place and encouraging participation despite fears. The Department of Homeland Security has denied targeting the museum, but the incident has intensified the community's vigilance and calls for protection of cultural spaces and immigrant rights.