Veterans Speak Out at Protest After Arrest of Air Force Veteran in Illinois

BROADVIEW, Ill. (WLS) — Protesters rallied outside the Broadview U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention center Thursday, speaking on behalf of several veteran organizations. They demanded that ICE cease alleged harassment of peaceful protesters and immigrants in the Chicago area.

Illinois State Police have set up barricades to designate protest zones to maintain safety and manage traffic around the facility. These measures come as the area has seen escalating tensions due to protests against ICE operations. Recent demonstrations have prompted confrontations with agents, resulting in five arrests last weekend.

A news release from the Illinois State Police stated, “The Unified Command is setting up designated areas where people can safely exercise their rights.” The goal is to ensure the health and safety of the public while allowing protesters to express their First Amendment rights.

Concrete barricades, three feet tall, now line the street leading to the detention center. This setup aims to keep demonstrators safe and traffic flowing. Protester Ronald Held, who was recently detained for eight hours, criticized these measures, saying, “I don’t see why peaceful protesters need to be pinned in.” Held claims that ICE has been breaking the law instead of enforcing it.

There were fewer confrontations Thursday night. ABC7 crews observed federal agents opening gates for an individual surrendering to immigration authorities, but protests at the facility have been marked by the use of tear gas and multiple arrests in recent weeks.

Thursday’s protest was organized following the controversial arrest of 70-year-old Air Force veteran Dana Briggs, who was apprehended while peacefully protesting outside the detention center last weekend. Video footage shows Briggs being forcefully taken into custody while he told federal agents to leave.

Veteran organizations like “Common Defense” and “Illinois Vets for Change” have condemned ICE’s tactics, calling the arrest of Briggs an alarming escalation of violence against citizens. Army veteran Jesse Rojo stated, “So-called patriots are turning a blind eye when they see mass deportation efforts tearing apart our community.”

The Department of Homeland Security defended the arrest of Briggs, stating he struck a Border Patrol officer and was verbally abusive toward agents. They denied claims of overcrowding in ICE facilities and affirmed that detainees receive necessary care.

As the day approaches for another large demonstration outside the Broadview facility, police are preparing to ensure that protests remain peaceful, amid ongoing community tensions and nationwide discussions regarding immigration enforcement.