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CHICAGO (WLS) — In a unique show of solidarity, a local activist is organizing a hair braiding event aimed at supporting families affected by immigration operations. This initiative comes at a time when the Chicago community is preparing for the potential return of federal agents to the area.
Yoli Águila, the activist behind the event, sees hair braiding as more than just a hairstyle; she views it as a powerful symbol of resistance against federal immigration officials. Her goal is to evoke a sense of heritage and hope among families, replacing fear with empowerment.
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“Maybe they may not want the ribbon, but braiding is a universal language,” Águila expressed, emphasizing the inclusive and universal nature of the tradition.
The vibrant ribbons interwoven within the braids are more than decorative—they honor indigenous cultural roots. Águila believes this connection to heritage is something that resonates universally, bridging diverse backgrounds through shared traditions.
The colorful ribbons weaved in between the braids pay tribute to the roots of indigenous culture. Águila says it’s something everyone can relate to.
“It’s not only Mexicans, but Somalians, Nicaraguans, Salvadorians, Venezuelans,” Águila said. “We have a rich history of resistance, of standing up to power.”
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On Sunday, Águila is partnering with the Illinois Workers in Action to host Ponte Tus Moños, a hair braiding event here at Eighteenth Barber Co. on the corner of 18th and Ashland in Pilsen, to support those directly impacted by immigration operations. It comes just days after testimony was given by those who had direct encounters with ICE agents.
“When we go home, myself and others around me, it’s easy to feel alone, it’s easy to feel frustrated, feel scared, feel like nothing’s gonna happen,” said Kevin Amaro with Illinois Workers in Action.
Amaro say his organization is able to provide free legal services, know your rights seminars, even family emergency plans if they have a run in with ICE agent. It’s something he says is imperative after seeing the deadly ICE shooting of Renee Good in Minneapolis as many of the families he works with are feeling fearful.
“We’ve heard it with youth, even we’ve been working with saying that, well, we’re not gonna speak as much Spanish, or, you know, even thinking about how to change light enough their skin color,” Amaro said.
That’s why this weekend, Águila wants families to be proud of their heritage. The barbershop will be donating the proceeds of those getting their hair braided to families in need of immigration support.
“Hope is a discipline. You have to keep practicing,” Amaro said.
The event will be here at Eighteenth Barber Co. from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, with a “know your rights” workshop starting at 3 p.m. Hair braiding will cost between $15 and $40 depending on the complexity of the style. All proceeds will go towards immigration support, and of course people are welcome to donate.
“All of us united, you can’t erase us,” Águila said.
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