Chicago alderwoman assaulted during protest against migrant tent shelter in Brighton Park

CHICAGO - Chicago residents pushed back Thursday against plans to create a migrant tent shelter in Brighton Park on the Southwest Side.

The group held a rally Thursday morning, saying safety is their main concern. At the same time, an alderwoman and her aide who showed up to the protest were physically attacked, according to a statement from the mayor's office.

The city's current plan calls for the tents to be set up at 38th Street and California Avenue, right across the street from a school. Protesters said they were given little to no notice about the plans, and feel they were not even considered when the plans were being made.

"The residents were not informed," one protestor said. "It was through word-of-mouth and passing things around through social media, contacting each other, voicing our concerns to one another about how we would feel in our neighborhood if this were to happen. Our alderwoman didn't let us know. There were no notices. There was nothing in the mail. We felt very stabbed in the back."

Ald. Julia Ramirez of the 12th Ward said as she was leaving the protest, a group of protesters surrounded her and her staffer and began assaulting them. 

"After having a few conversations, it became clear that most of the protesters did not want to engage in a peaceful dialogue with me," Ramirez said in a statement. "I hear my residents and want them to know I will always advocate for their safety and ensure our communities have the resources they deserve. I also respect everyone's right to peacefully protest however violence and hate is not the answer."

Ramirez said her staffer was transported to a hospital and was listed in good condition.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also released the following statement on the assault of Ramirez.

"I learned today that an alderwoman and an aide, while attempting to meet with constituents, were victims of a physical attack by area residents. My administration supports the right to peaceful protest and free speech, but this type of action against a public servant is unconscionable.

Any violent act against an elected official in our city is unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms. My office and the Chicago Police Department are currently investigating this incident, and we will provide updates as they become available."

A community meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. next Tuesday at Thomas Kelly College Prep to discuss the issues. The meeting will be in both English and Spanish.