SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) - Governor JB Pritzker held a press conference this week calling on the Trump Administration to suspend federal immigration enforcement during Halloween weekend to protect children and families.
In a letter to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, Acting ICE Director Daniel Lyons, and Border Patrol Commissioner Matthew Scott, Pritzker requested a pause in enforcement operations from October 31 through November 2 in locations where Halloween celebrations are taking place.
The governor emphasized that families should be able to celebrate without fear.
"No child should be forced to inhale tear gas or other chemical agents while trick or treating in their own neighborhood,” Governor Pritzker wrote. “Illinois children should not be robbed of their innocence. Let them enjoy a time-honored American tradition safely and peacefully. Please let children be children for one holiday, free from intimidation and fear.”
During the press conference, Pritzker cited what he described as disturbing federal actions impacting innocent residents, including children. He referenced incidents such as:
- The deployment of tear gas during a children’s parade
- The detainment of a father with a sick daughter
- The separation of siblings from their parents due to arrests
The governor urged the federal government to reinstate guidance from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) on sensitive locations, which helps prevent disruptions at schools, hospitals, and other family-centered events.
Pritzker stated that Halloween celebrations should be a time of joy and community, and that families should not have to worry about enforcement actions interfering with their safety and well-being.
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