'Angels' step in after federal agents use tear gas near Chicago school

() After federal agents deployed tear gas near a Chicago elementary school, community members have banded together to ensure children can come and go safely as the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown continues in the city.

Mayor Brandon Johnson said the Oct. 3 incident in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood sent students running into the school and prompted teachers and staff to create a barrier between the children and federal authorities.

“The escalation of ICE raids does nothing to keep our young people safe; in fact, it makes them afraid, and it disrupts their learning,” Johnson, referring to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, said at a recent news conference.

Now, a new line of protection has surrounded students in the Chicago Public Schools system. Armed with whistles and know-your-rights pamphlets, these community volunteers call themselves “guardian angels.” Together, they secure the perimeters of elementary, middle and high schools across the city.

Asked about the incident, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Border Patrol agents deployed tear gas and pepper balls when protesters impeded the arrest of an alleged undocumented immigrant. In general, federal policy prohibits immigration authorities from raiding sensitive locations such as churches and schools, although agents have been seen conducting operations in nearby neighborhoods.

Volunteers fan out across Chicago schools

When the call for volunteers went out, 500 community members stepped up, filling more than 1,000 shifts at nearly 100 schools on Chicago’s northwest side. The goal is to ensure students can attend class for an education without fear of a confrontation with ICE. 

This “guardian angel” movement has continued to grow, and volunteers have shown up in droves daily at school pick-up and drop-off locations.

“They’re just regular people who understand that people have the right to eat, to work, to go to school,” said Juliet De Jesus of the Logan Square Neighborhood Association.

Johnson said he’s hopeful there won’t be a repeat of what happened outside the school, thanks to a temporary restraining order, which prohibits federal authorities from using force against citizens.

However, DHS said individuals are subject to arrest and federal prosecution if they block authorities from doing their job and carrying out enforcement operations.