CHICAGO ~ Chicago City Council Approves Ordinance to Strengthen Welcoming City Ordinance and Increase Police Accountability

In a unanimous decision, the Chicago City Council has approved an ordinance that will empower the Civilian Office of Police Accountability (COPA) to investigate alleged violations of the Welcoming City Ordinance by members of the Chicago Police Department (CPD). The measure, led by Ald. Jessie Fuentes (68th) and supported by Mayor Brandon Johnson, aims to strengthen the Welcoming City Ordinance and ensure independent oversight while reaffirming the city's commitment to immigrant communities.

Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of this ordinance, stating that it is more than just a piece of paper but a commitment to all residents of Chicago, regardless of their immigration status. He also expressed concern over the Trump administration's aggressive immigration policies, which have eroded trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities. With this new measure in place, residents can feel safe calling the police during emergencies without fear of their immigration status being questioned.

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Ald. Fuentes echoed Mayor Johnson's sentiments, emphasizing that transparency and accountability begin with government. She thanked various city officials for their ongoing work in refining ways to keep residents safe.

The approved ordinance, 2025-0020004, amends Municipal Code Section 2-78-120 to establish a procedure for COPA to investigate alleged violations of the Welcoming City Ordinance. This new mechanism will ensure that complaints are thoroughly and fairly addressed with transparency.

Effective immediately, all allegations of Welcoming City violations involving CPD officers will fall under COPA's independent investigative authority. This move comes as Chicago has faced unprecedented federal immigration enforcement activity, which has strained communities and highlighted gaps in COPA's investigative authority.

Mayor Johnson has taken swift action within his authority to hold federal agents accountable if they break the law in Chicago. This includes his groundbreaking executive order 'ICE On Notice', which sets clear procedures for CPD members to follow in the event of federal misconduct.

The City Council's approval of this ordinance is a crucial step towards ensuring the safety and protection of all residents, regardless of their immigration status. It also reaffirms Chicago's commitment to being a welcoming city for all.

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