Posters have appeared in the Waukegan, Zion and North Chicago area recently with pro-Trump and pro-ICE markings, along with shooting targets placed on aliens, as officials call it “vile” and “hateful.”
U.S. Congressman Brad Schneider said he was “disgusted” by the “vile, hateful” posters being placed in Waukegan, Zion and North Chicago.
He called it a clear attempt to “scare, intimidate, and divide our communities,” especially immigrant neighbors.
“I join with fellow elected officials in unequivocally condemning these hate-filled posters and the small-minded people distributing them,” Schneider said.
“Our communities will not be defined by the few who spread hate. We will not be intimidated,” he added.
Different posters have been placed on numerous poles in the past three weeks. The posters have included references to “MAGA” and ICE.
Other posters appeared to show green figures, which appeared to be aliens, with shooting targets placed on them.
Some of the posters were placed high on the poles, requiring people to stand on vehicles or ladders to remove them.
Residents and community leaders have been taking down the posters as they appear in the community and local police departments have been made aware of the incidents.
The posters have also appeared in Kenosha, Wisconsin, and faith and community leaders held a press conference earlier this week to address “anti-immigrant hate posters” and to “reaffirm the community’s commitment to inclusion, safety, and respect for all residents.”
Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham said the signs appeared on poles across Waukegan and in neighboring cities, some of them promoting violence against immigrants.
“Waukegan is a proudly diverse city, built by generations of hard-working people from various countries, cultures, and backgrounds. I condemn any sign, message, or action that promotes hatred, intimidation, discrimination, or political violence towards the immigrant community or towards anyone in the strongest possible terms,” Cunningham said.
“There is absolutely no place for hate in Waukegan. The Waukegan Police Department is actively investigating these recent incidents as criminal conduct,” Cunningham said.
“Together, we will ensure that fear and division do not take root in Waukegan,” Cunningham said.
Lily Gaytan, who lives in a neighborhood that was affected, said the signs are a “direct threat to our community.”
“Now is the time for us to unite and put a stop to this hate,” Gaytan said.
Pastor Julie Contreras of United Giving Hope said families living in the affected areas have expressed concern about the impact the displays may have on children and immigrant residents.
“The Waukegan Police Department must take these concerns seriously. We have zero tolerance for intimidation, threats, or rhetoric that causes fear in our immigrant communities. We are asking for a thorough investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable,” Contreras said.
Anyone with information is asked to come forward and cooperate with the ongoing investigation by calling (847) 360-9000.