UPDATE: Faith leaders were once again denied entry to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Broadview, Illinois, on November 1, 2025, prompting a powerful outdoor Mass that drew over 2,000 attendees for All Saints Day. Despite the setback, the Coalition for Spiritual and Public Leadership held a vibrant gathering outside the facility, emphasizing the dire need for spiritual support for detainees.
The group, led by longtime activist Sister JoAnn Persch, requested access to the facility to offer Communion and pastoral care to those detained. This request was swiftly denied by federal immigration officials after Illinois State troopers were contacted. The coalition has made two attempts to gain entry this month, with no response to their letters sent on October 24 and October 30, raising serious concerns about the treatment of detainees inside.
During the emotional Mass, which began at 10 a.m., approximately 800 attendees received the Eucharist, marking a significant moment of spiritual communion despite being barred from providing direct support to those inside. “Unfortunately, we were denied entrance,” said the Rev. Juan Vargas, associate pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Parish. “But we still had our moment of spiritual communion with everyone who’s been detained.”
The event took on a festive atmosphere as attendees transitioned from solemn Mass to a lively protest featuring costumed demonstrators. Many participants donned Halloween costumes, including a unicorn and a Chicago-style hot dog, to advocate against ICE operations. Local authorities had established designated “free speech zones” but tensions escalated as demonstrators clashed with police.
In a display of solidarity, the coalition set up ofrendas for Día de Los Muertos, honoring those who died while crossing the border or during confrontations with ICE. Among the tributes was a memorial for Silverio Villegas Gonzalez, a man killed by immigration agents in September.
As the protest evolved, demonstrators initiated a “Jericho walk,” symbolizing their commitment to interrupt ICE operations. “Every ICE agent that leaves this facility is going out into our community to disappear our neighbors,” said organizer Rachel Cohen. The peaceful protest soon turned chaotic when local police began to disperse the crowd, leading to confrontations.
Reports indicate that police used pepper balls against protesters, resulting in multiple arrests. Cook County officials confirmed that four individuals were charged with disorderly conduct during the demonstrations. Tensions mounted as protesters voiced their frustration over restrictions on their civil liberties.
By 6 p.m., police issued a final warning for protesters to disperse or face further action, including potential use of chemical agents. As clashes continued, demonstrators exited the area, but not without leaving a strong message regarding the need for justice and compassion for immigrants.
This ongoing resistance against ICE operations in Broadview underscores a growing movement advocating for the rights of immigrants. Activists like Sister JoAnn Persch and Rev. Vargas remain dedicated to providing spiritual support despite facing barriers, reminding us of the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis unfolding within detention centers.
The situation remains fluid, with further actions expected as community leaders continue to advocate for access to those detained. Stay tuned for more developments on this urgent story.
