Over 20 Arrested at Protest Outside Broadview ICE Facility

21 people were arrested on Friday during a protest outside the ICE facility in Broadview, Illinois.

The area has been the site of sustained protests against ICE and alleged conditions at the facility. The building’s location in the Chicago suburb has led to continued scrutiny and calls for protests by Chicago-area activists.

A group of clergy demonstrated outside the facility prior to the arrests, creating an altar with items they desired to bring to detainees inside the facility.

Protesters chanted and sung during the demonstration, and remarks were given over a speaker system set up temporarily in a designated protest area.

A group then attempted to gain entry to the facility, walking over to the edge of the protest area and requesting to be let inside. Broadview Police Chief Thomas Mills placed a call on protesters’ behalf to facilitate the request, which was ultimately denied.

Shortly thereafter, a larger group entered Beach Street outside of the designated protest area, prompting a response from police, who attempted to push the crowd back. Clashes ensued, and several arrests were made as protesters remained in the roadway.

Police eventually regained control of the area, and protesters continued demonstrating in the designated protest area before dispersing.

See video from the Friday morning arrests here:

And check out a livestream from Friday’s demonstration here: