Story perspectives

Chicago Immigrants Face 75% Sales Drop Amid Crackdown

11/25/2025

Center

Immigrants Face Challenges

Ofelia Herrera and Rafael Hernandez, undocumented immigrants from Mexico, run a street food stand in Chicago's Little Village.
Their sales have decreased by 75% since the Trump administration's "Operation Midway Blitz" began in September 2023.
The couple, who have lived in the U.S. for over 20 years, express fear for their family's future but remain hopeful.
They acknowledge the difficulties of obtaining legal status and the fear within the immigrant community.
Despite challenges, they are committed to staying in Chicago for their children's sake.

Left

Trump's Operation Blitz

U.S. President Donald Trump’s Operation Midway Blitz continues to affect Chicago, with arrests persisting and a peak of 142 daily sightings.
In Broadview, protests escalated with a civil emergency declared.
A federal appeals court has temporarily blocked the release of hundreds of detainees, raising concerns about the legality of their arrests.
Activists and community leaders push back against federal actions, citing lack of transparency.

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Immigrants Face Challenges

Ofelia Herrera and Rafael Hernandez, undocumented immigrants from Mexico, run a street food stand in Chicago's Little Village.
Their sales have decreased by 75% since the Trump administration's "Operation Midway Blitz" began in September 2023.
The couple, who have lived in the U.S. for over 20 years, express fear for their family's future but remain hopeful.
They acknowledge the difficulties of obtaining legal status and the fear within the immigrant community.
Despite challenges, they are committed to staying in Chicago for their children's sake.

1 / 2