From Community Pressure to Policy: New Ordinance Targets CPD’s Role in ICE Collaboration

The Chicago United Families Coalition (CUFC) welcomes the ordinance championed by Alderperson Jessie Fuentes and Mayor Brandon Johnson, which authorizes the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) to investigate alleged violations of the Welcoming City Ordinance by the Chicago Police Department (CPD).

At a time when many were hesitant to scrutinize the role of local law enforcement, CUFC consistently called attention to the passive complicity that has allowed ICE to harm and terrorize our communities—often with public resources and without accountability.

In January, CUFC issued clear demands for consequences related to CPD’s collaboration with ICE. These demands quickly resonated across the community, becoming a shared call for justice. Through sustained grassroots mobilization—including large public meetings and coordinated advocacy—community pressure helped shape the City’s response. This progress began with Mayor Johnson’s “ICE on notice” executive order and now continues with this ordinance empowering COPA to investigate alleged CPD collaboration with ICE.

As implementation begins, CUFC emphasizes that the next phase requires vigilance and accountability. COPA must operate with full transparency, ensure public access to information, remain open to community input, and act in good faith—not as a shield for CPD, but as an independent body serving the public interest.

While CUFC supports this ordinance as a meaningful step forward, critical gaps remain. Most notably, the absence of clearly defined consequences for violations of the Welcoming City Ordinance underscores the urgent need for stronger enforcement mechanisms and continued policy development.

This fight is far from over. No victory—perceived or material—should signal a pause in organizing. We must continue to apply pressure, build power, and push for lasting systemic change. As new challenges emerge, including monitoring ICE activity at airports, CUFC encourages the public to stay informed and engaged by following updates at @familieschicago.