Folks may be concerned about traveling to Chicago, given the recent escalation of ICE activity in our city. First things first: you should do what’s right for you. We know that people with uncertain immigration status or expired documents face a higher risk, and everyone needs to do their own risk assessment. That said, here are some things to consider when planning your trip:
- While ICE agents are most certainly conducting unlawful and inhumane activities in and around the city, Chicago has made it clear that we neither need nor want them here. About 250,000 Chicagoans showed up for the No Kings rally on October 18. Chicago’s mayor has established ICE-free zones throughout the city via executive order, and the Illinois governor has sued the federal government in order to prevent the National Guard from being deployed. On October 9, a federal judge sided with the city and state, barring National Guard deployment for at least 14 days, and on October 22, that restraining order was extended indefinitely until the case is heard by the U.S. Supreme Court.
- Marwen is a space for students in grades 6-12, most of whom are artists of color. Since the summer, they have updated their ICE protocols, security cameras, and entrance signage (with advisement by an immigration attorney) to support clear messages designating their space as prohibitive of harmful practices.
- We have hired a private security officer for the event, who has been working with Marwen to provide welcoming support for their families.
When traveling:
- Always carry identification and any relevant travel/immigration documents.
- Memorize the phone number of an emergency contact.
- If you are stopped, stay calm, don’t run or resist, and keep your hands where others can see them.
- If you think you see immigration officers nearby, and you feel safe to do so, record the activity with your phone, being careful not to interfere.
- If you need support, call the ICIRR Hotline at 1-855-435-7693.
As this is an evolving situation, we will update this page with any changes to the conference.
Last updated: October 23, 2025
