North Cook News

The Village of Skokie has announced new measures to protect the rights of all residents, including those with varying immigration statuses. On November 3, the Village Board approved changes to the Skokie Village Code that further restrict the use of Village-owned properties for immigration enforcement operations unless there is a valid criminal warrant. These restrictions apply to buildings, parking lots, garages, vacant lots, and other properties owned by the Village.

The recent code amendments build on previous efforts by the Village to inform and support community members. These actions include creating an internal protocol for staff to report federal immigration activity on Village property, distributing an immigrant rights and resources flyer to schools and local organizations, developing a webpage with information in more than 100 languages, and working with stakeholders to address community needs.

“All individuals—regardless of immigration status—have legal rights,” states information provided by the Village. Residents seeking assistance are encouraged to access resources such as the Protecting Your Rights flyer from the Human Relations Commission, visit the Protecting Your Rights webpage (translatable with Google Translate), or consult organizations like the Illinois Immigration Information Hub, Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR), North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic, and Resurrection Project – Immigration Legal Services. In emergencies or to report ICE activity, individuals can call ICIRR’s Family Support Hotline at 1-855-HELP-MY-FAMILY (1-855-435-7693). The Skokie Health and Human Services Department is also available at 847-933-8252 for additional support.

The Village emphasizes its adherence to the Illinois TRUST Act. This law prohibits local law enforcement from participating in federal immigration enforcement operations or detaining people based solely on their citizenship or immigration status unless there is a valid criminal warrant. The Human Relations Ordinance further affirms this commitment by restricting access to municipal facilities for immigration enforcement purposes.

Community members who have concerns about law enforcement activities or public safety are advised to call 911. According to guidance from the Village: “Skokie police – including a supervisor – will be dispatched to respond. Please know that there are legal limits to what local law enforcement can do in these situations.”

Skokie Police are able to support public safety, document observed activities and identities involved when possible, and act as liaisons between residents and federal agents during disputes. However, they cannot interfere with federal immigration operations or prevent federal agents from detaining or questioning individuals.

“The Village of Skokie is a welcoming community, committed to serving all who call Skokie home,” according to a statement released by officials. “The Village recognizes the uncertainty and fear many are experiencing at this time, and reaffirms that Skokie is a place where everyone is valued and respected. The Village calls on all community members to embody Skokie’s welcoming spirit and continue showing compassion, respect and support for one another.”