What Rights Do Tenants and Landlords Have While Facing ICE?
What you should know if federal immigration agents show up at your building or damage your property.
How the Government Shutdown and Lapsed Benefits are Impacting Families
Federal food aid expired over the weekend because of the government shutdown. Here’s how SNAP will be impacted and what this means for immigrant families.
Tara MobasherNovember 4, 2025
Cook County Board Reapproves Contract with ICE-Linked Data Firm as Raids Sweep Chicago
Four years after first being warned that a contract risked exposing immigrant data to ICE, Cook County approved another renewal—this time with advocates commissioners voicing frustration that stronger safeguards are still missing.
Alma Campos/ South Side WeeklyNovember 3, 2025
Judge Orders Release Of Cancer Patient’s Father Arrested By ICE, Citing No Criminal Record
Ruben Torres Maldonado, whose teenage daughter has cancer, was granted a $2,000 bond during a hearing Thursday morning.
Patrick FilbinOctober 31, 2025
Border Patrol Boss Greg Bovino Must Report To Court Daily About ICE Tactics, Federal Judge Says
“Kids dressed in Halloween costumes walking to a parade do not pose an immediate threat to the safety of a law enforcement officer,” U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis told Bovino during a court hearing Tuesday morning. “They just don’t.”
Mina BloomOctober 29, 2025
Religious Activists Protested Broadview for Years. Now, ICE’s Crackdown Is Drowning Out Their Prayers
What began as quiet Friday morning prayers decades ago has evolved into a larger and louder movement as activists join a long-standing prayer group in demanding the release of detainees.
ICE Arrest Of Teen Cancer Patient’s Dad ‘Unconscionable,’ Officials Say While Demanding His Release
Rep. Delia Ramirez said she’s preparing legislation to “rein in ICE” as she and other officials push for an investigation into Ruben Torres Maldonado’s arrest by a “terror force” of federal agents.
Patrick FilbinOctober 23, 2025
Mexican American Tattoo Artists Use Their Skills to Fight for Immigrant Rights
While the Trump administration uses tattoos to target and deport Latino immigrants, these artists are tapping into Chicano tattooing’s origins to resist and uplift their community.
Katrina PhamOctober 23, 2025
‘We Should Be Able To Live In Peace’: ICE Allegedly Pulls Gun On State Rep. Hoan Huynh
In the latest incident in a string of aggressive immigration enforcement, Illinois State Rep. Hoan Huynh alleged that federal agents pointed a gun at him and a staffer in Chicago’s North Side while they were warning the community of ICE presence.
‘This Could Have Been Anyone’: How a Fatal ICE Shooting Impacted Franklin Park Residents
When Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez was fatally shot by an ICE agent last month, the moment sent shockwaves through a community that prides itself on its diversity.
Aydali CampaOctober 21, 2025
From Pepper Spray to Tear Gas: Here’s How to Spot the Difference When They’re Dispersed
Amid frequent escalating protests and aggressive tactics by federal agents, Borderless compiled a guide to understand what substances agents are using — and how to stay protected in case of potential exposure.
Tara MobasherOctober 17, 2025
Immigration Committee Chair Warns ‘Fascism Is Here,’ Sends Plan To Investigate Feds To Council
Among the measures expected to be considered by the City Council on Thursday is a resolution to investigate “every instance of potential misconduct” by federal agents in Chicago amid the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement blitz.
Alex V. HernandezOctober 16, 2025
Boards Across Borders: Two Chicago Brothers’ Love Letter to the Guatemalan Skate Community
Javier and Rodrigo “Booger” Ponce are leveraging their connection to Chicago's skate community to uplift the Guatemalan skateboarding scene.
Camilla ForteOctober 14, 2025
ICE Agents In Chicago Area Who Aren’t Undercover Must Wear Badges Or IDs, Federal Judge Rules
Agents have been concealing their identities by wearing masks and hats without badges or name tags. Advocates say the ruling is a step toward accountability.
Mina BloomOctober 10, 2025
Chicago Officials, Community Leaders Push Back Against ICE’s Aggressive Tactics: ‘This Is About Control’
One month since the launch of “Operation Midway Blitz,” Illinois officials and activists are taking action against ICE enforcement tactics and the deployment of the National Guard.
Tara MobasherOctober 7, 2025
Chicago Medical Students Create ‘Safety Net Clinic’ for Noncitizens
The Mobile Migrant Health Team, made up of medical students and volunteers, banded together to provide medical help to noncitizens.
What Rights Do I Have If ICE Stops Me on the Road?
After the death of 38-year-old immigrant Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez during an ICE arrest in Franklin Park, advocates are urging immigrant communities to know their rights. Here’s what a legal expert says if you’re stopped by ICE.
Aydali CampaSeptember 30, 2025
ICE Fires Chemical Weapon At TV Reporter In Broadview; ‘Unprovoked’ Attack Under Investigation
The attack came one day after ICE arrested another working journalist. “Absolutely unprovoked,” the TV news reporter said. “My window was open and chemicals went all over my face. Been puking for two hours.”
Mack LiedermanSeptember 29, 2025
Trump Announces New $100K Fee for H-1B Visas: Here’s What You Should Know
The Trump administration announced last week that it will add a $100,000 fee for H-1B visa applications. Borderless Magazine compiled a guide explaining these changes, who’s impacted and what’s next.
Tara MobasherSeptember 26, 2025
How Summer Festival Organizers Leaned into Community Resources to Resist ICE
Some festival organizers have taken proactive measures to train vendors and staff on how to interact with ICE agents ahead of large gatherings with immigrant attendees.
Cook County Sheriff ‘Data Loophole’ Lets ICE Access Immigrant Info
A clause in the county’s contract lets an information system designed for crime victims funnel sensitive data to ICE-contracted LexisNexis.
Alma Campos/ South Side WeeklyAugust 27, 2025
More Than Three Years After Russia’s Full-scale Ukraine Invasion, Aid Workers Question: ‘Is Rebuilding Enough?
Chicago's Ukrainian diaspora has funded millions to reconstruct bombed communities. But as some humanitarian workers pivot from humanitarian work to military action, volunteers face hard questions about effective resistance.
Wendy WeiAugust 12, 2025
Can Local Officials Stop ICE Agents From Hiding Behind Masks? They’re Trying
Seven Illinois representatives co-sponsored a bill that would ban immigration agents from wearing masks. In Chicago, police district council members want the city to enforce “identification standards” for law enforcement.
Francia Garcia Hernandez, Block Club ChicagoJuly 7, 2025
Alderpeople Call for Investigation Into ICE South Loop Arrests
Chicago’s Immigrant Committee held a hearing Tuesday, questioning CPD and other city officials about whether city police collaborated with ICE during mass arrests in the South Loop.
Aydali CampaJuly 1, 2025
Immigrant Rights Leaders, Chicago Refugees Call for Action on World Refugee Day
City officials and refugees gathered at Daley Plaza for World Refugee Day to push back against Trump’s immigration policies.
Lucy BaptisteJune 30, 2025
Venezuelans, Haitians in Chicago Confront Deportation: ‘People Are in Shock’
As the Supreme Court supports the rollback of TPS, Chicago immigrants from Venezuela and Haiti plead for protection.
Fatema HosseiniJune 18, 2025
Borderless Week in Visuals: How ICE Arrests Sparked Demonstrations In Chicago
Protests have erupted nationwide against Trump’s immigration crackdown, with tens of thousands in Chicago demanding an end to ICE raids.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker Defends Sanctuary Policies in Congressional Hearing, Claims ‘Abuse of Power’
Pritzker defended the safety and security of sanctuary policies at the House Oversight Committee, while calling Trump’s use of the National Guard to quell Los Angeles protests an “abuse of power.”
Tara MobasherJune 12, 2025
What to Know About Trump’s New Travel Ban
Trump’s latest executive order blocks immigrants and visitors from 12 countries and imposes partial entry restrictions on seven others.
Fatema HosseiniJune 11, 2025
Congressman Garcia, Advocates Denounce Trump’s Attack on Immigrants in Chicago, Nationwide: ‘We’re Not Going Anywhere’
Leaders condemned Trump and ICE's latest escalation against immigrant communities.
Lucy BaptisteJune 9, 2025
Trump Administration Pauses Visa Cancellations After Legal Pushback
The policy reversal followed mounting lawsuits and backlash from universities and state officials.
Fatema HosseiniMay 28, 2025
Immigrant Rights Advocates ‘Fighting Back Against Fear’ as Trump Administration Marks First 100 Days
Immigrant Rights Advocates ‘Fighting Back Against Fear’ as Trump Administration Marks First 100 Days
As President Donald Trump’s administration marks 100 days, immigrant organizations say they are expanding advocacy efforts and ramping up demonstrations in Chicago.
What to Know About Deportation Proceedings
Under Trump, immigration policies are rapidly changing. Borderless Magazine compiled a guide to explain removal proceedings, detainee rights and potential risks.
Tara MobasherApril 29, 2025
Arrest of Milwaukee Judge Echoes Massachusetts Case — With One Key Difference
Milwaukee Judge Hannah Dugan's case is similar to a 2019 case brought against Massachusetts Judge Shelley M. Richmond Joseph.
Jack Kelly Wisconsin WatchApril 28, 2025
Fleeing Hardship, Building a Dream: The Story Behind Chicago’s Beloved Shokolad Cafe
After leaving Ukraine with little more than faith and determination, Halyana Fedus built a life serving food and hope to her Chicago community.
Fatema HosseiniApril 24, 2025
Chicago’s Venezuelan Community in Limbo amid Trump’s Push to End Deportation Protections
Although a federal appeals court upheld a judge’s move to halt deportation protections, Venezuelans in Chicago say the community is still living with uncertainty.
Fatema HosseiniApril 22, 2025
ICE, IRS agreement: What undocumented immigrants should know on Tax Day
A new agreement allows the IRS to share data and information about taxpayers with ICE. Here’s what you should know while filing your taxes.
REAL ID deadline is May 7. Here’s what you need to know.
REAL ID will be required to board domestic flights, enter military bases, and enter federal courthouses. But not everyone will need one.
Fatema HosseiniApril 14, 2025
What is the Status of DACA?
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) has been under attack for several years. Now, the program remains active but hasn’t accepted new applicants since 2021 amid court challenges.
Fiona WuApril 7, 2025
What to Know About the Trump Gold Cards and Their Likelihood to Be Approved
Donald Trump’s proposal to replace EB-5 visas with Gold Cards could change people’s access to the country and affect the economy.
Samantha MonjeApril 4, 2025
Chicago’s Ukrainian Community Looks for Hope Amid Ongoing War: ‘I Just Want Ukraine to Be Peaceful Again’
Since Russia’s 2022 invasion, over 30,000 Ukrainians have rebuilt their life in Chicago. Now, under Trump, they face uncertainty even as the war continues.
Fatema HosseiniApril 1, 2025
Immigrant Advocates Committed to ‘Fighting Back’ Against Proposed Trump Travel Ban
After Trump’s proposed travel ban leaked, immigrant advocacy groups said the reported plan would disproportionately impact Arab, African and Asian countries.
Fatema HosseiniMarch 26, 2025
Immigration Attorneys Share Tips for Seeking Legal Assistance During Uncertain Times
With immigration policies rapidly shifting, attorneys say it's important to stay informed about how recent changes may affect your legal status.
Aydali CampaMarch 25, 2025
City’s Immigrant Committee Holds First Meeting Since Trump Takes Office
Chicago officials said they’ve focused on the ground efforts to ensure constituents know their rights amid Trump’s immigration crackdown.
Rohingya Refugees’ Dreams of Family Reunification Shattered With Trump’s Resettlement Freeze
After years of waiting, Chicago’s Rohingya community now fears longer delays to reunite with loved ones as Trump suspends refugee admissions.
Fatema HosseiniMarch 18, 2025
Chicago Small Businesses Rise Up In Protest Against Trump’s Deportation Threats
Small businesses’ advocacy aims to raise awareness about the impact of intensified deportation efforts by Trump’s administration.
Aydali CampaMarch 6, 2025
Chicago Mayor Defends Sanctuary City Status in D.C. Here’s What to Know
During the congressional hearing, Johnson highlighted Chicago’s diverse migrant history and how sanctuary policies strengthen trust.
After Fleeing War, a Family Preserved Their Polish Heritage in a Belmont Cragin Home
Christopher Lorenc’s family lived in displacement camps after fleeing war-torn Poland. They resettled and made their home a haven for other Polish immigrants in Chicago.
Fatema HosseiniFebruary 25, 2025
Boxed Up: A Portrait of an Immigrant Community Living Under Threat of Deportation
The Nicaraguans who keep Wisconsin’s dairy farms, restaurants and factories working are sending home their most prized possessions, bracing for potential mass deportations. “We don’t have much, but what we do have is important.”
Melissa Sanchez, ProPublicaFebruary 20, 2025
Syrians in Chicago Celebrate Fall of Assad While Facing Uncertainty in Trump-Era
After years of turmoil, Syrian refugees find hope in the wake of a regime change, but face new challenges under recently inaugurated President Trump.
Tara MobasherFebruary 18, 2025
What Trump’s Sanctuary Lawsuit Means for Chicago Immigrants
The Justice Department’s lawsuit seeks to overturn local laws that limit Chicago’s cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.
Letter From the Editor: Facts, Not Fear
Borderless empowers our readers with information to make the best decisions for themselves. This information is critical more now than ever.
Mauricio PeñaFebruary 6, 2025
Stranded in Mexico: Afghan Asylum Seekers in Limbo After CBP One Shutdown
Hundreds of Afghan migrants face uncertainty after the U.S. abruptly shuts down CBP One, canceling asylum appointments and leaving them in legal limbo.
Fatema HosseiniFebruary 4, 2025
How Executive Orders Shape U.S. Immigration Policy
Using executive orders to change U.S. immigration policy isn’t new. It also isn’t as easy to implement as one might think.
What to Know About Trump’s Effort to End Birthright Citizenship
Trump’s controversial executive order looks to deny citizenship to children born to noncitizens. The order has been temporarily blocked by a judge who called the move “blatantly unconstitutional.”
Donald Trump Stoked Fear Even Before Taking Office
On the eve of his inauguration, Donald Trump’s plans to step up ICE raids and seal the border drummed up worries across Chicago.
Mauricio PeñaJanuary 21, 2025
A People’s Agenda for Immigration Under Trump
Chicagoans share the immigration policies and changes they will be working toward during President Trump’s second term.
Trump Deportations Could Start In Chicago Tuesday, Reports Say. The City’s Immigrants Are Preparing
As many as 200 ICE officers will be sent to Chicago next week, according to national reports. Chicago leaders are doubling down on efforts to support immigrants amid fears.
City Council Blocks Effort to Weaken Chicago’s ‘Welcoming’ Ordinance
Ald. Raymond Lopez and Silvana Tabares' proposal would have reinstated a controversial practice of allowing police to cooperate with federal immigration agents.
Fatema HosseiniJanuary 16, 2025
How Trump Made Gains Among Chinatown Voters
Donald Trump’s increased support in Chinatown reflects a broader national trend driven by misinformation, economic frustration and shifts in social values, community leaders say.
Fatema HosseiniJanuary 14, 2025
What Borderless Is Watching on the Immigration Beat in 2025
President Donald Trump's second term, environmental policy and more stories we will follow in the new year.
Borderless Magazine StaffJanuary 7, 2025
Borderless Magazine’s Favorite Visuals of 2024 — and the Stories Behind Them
From the plight of day laborers to the joys of a lowrider meetup at a drive-in theater, what Borderless Magazine’s visuals team captured in 2024.
Max HermanDecember 30, 2024
Naturalization Ceremony Welcomes New U.S. Citizens at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry: ‘I’m so Happy and Excited’
Nearly 150 people became United States citizens during a ceremony at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park last week.
Tara MobasherDecember 18, 2024
Mass Deportations Will Start ‘Right Here In Chicago,’ Trump’s Border Czar Says
At an event hosted by Chicago Republicans, Tom Homan also said he would prosecute Mayor Brandon Johnson if he continued to “harbor and conceal” asylum seekers.
Mack LiedermanDecember 11, 2024
Looking for Holiday Markets? Here are 8 in Chicago and Nearby Suburbs
Get your Christmas and Hanukkah shopping done in these holiday markets and pop-ups in December.
Samantha MonjeDecember 10, 2024
Veteran Reflects on Military Service and Afghanistan’s Legacy with Afghan Journalist
Throughout his two decades of service, Kevin Burke was deployed several times to Afghanistan, Iraq and Africa. The experience shaped his perspective on Afghan people fighting for freedom against the Taliban.
Fatema HosseiniDecember 3, 2024
How a Dog Rescue at the Border is Helping Families Reunite with Their Pets
El Paso-based Bridge Pups Rescue volunteers, led by Ruby Montana, have been reuniting immigrants with their pets after crossing the US-Mexico border.
Chelsea VerstegenNovember 25, 2024
Sensitive Migrant Data Mishandled, Former Chicago Shelter Contractors Allege
In a federal complaint, the former contractors say that Favorite Healthcare Staffing systematically mishandled personally identifying and private health information of shelter residents.
Chicago Parks Offer a Glimpse of Migrant Trails with ‘A Welcoming Place’
After two years of traveling alongside asylum seekers, two photographers share their work to expand conversations on immigration.
Max HermanNovember 15, 2024
With Trump’s Win, Chicago Immigrants Vow to “Fight Back”
Despite fears about Trump’s immigration policies, immigrant community leaders gathered in Chicago on Wednesday to call for unity.
Donald Trump Defeats Harris in Race for White House
After a contentious campaign, Donald Trump was projected to surpass 270 electoral votes, enough to defeat Vice President Kamala Harris.
How Immigrant Communities Are Feeling as They Cast Their Vote for President
As voters head to the polls, immigrant communities share what’s at stake for them this election.
Where Harris and Trump Stand on the Border and Other Immigration Policies
While Vice President Kamala Harris has shifted her stance on the border to align more closely with Donald Trump, the candidates diverge on DACA, temporary protected status, and deportation.
Katrina PhamOctober 29, 2024
‘The Home I Worked to Make: Voices from the New Syrian Diaspora’
In an excerpt from her new book, Northwestern University Professor Wendy Pearlman draws from interviews of Syrians who were forced to flee their homeland.
Wendy PearlmanOctober 22, 2024
Chicago Will End Troubled Staffing Contract, Merge Homeless, Migrant Systems By 2025
The new system will offer 6,800 beds despite a projected need for 11,000 spaces for all Chicagoans experiencing homelessness.
What to Know About Chicago’s Aim to Merge Migrant, Homeless Shelter Systems
City and state officials rolled out recommendations for the 'One System Initiative,' which would include an intake zone accessible every day of the year for anyone experiencing homelessness.
Katrina PhamOctober 17, 2024
How to Vote in Illinois This Election
From how to register to vote to who can vote, we answer your questions about voting in the presidential election.
Tara MobasherSeptember 15, 2024
How Kamala Harris and Donald Trump Are Talking About Immigration
Former President Trump has continued his anti-immigrant rhetoric and promised mass deportation, while Vice President Harris has shared sparse details on her policy plans.
ISabelle SenechalAugust 22, 2024
DNC Protesters Call For Ceasefire in Gaza, Israel Arms Embargo as Palestinian Death Toll Rises
With all eyes on Chicago for the Democratic National Convention, tens of thousands of protesters marched in solidarity with Palestine.
Isabelle SenechalAugust 19, 2024
Illinois Makes Housing Discrimination Based on Immigration Status a Civil Rights Violation
The state-expanded protections prohibit housing providers from discriminating against a person based on actual or perceived immigration status. A real estate attorney breaks down what this expanded law means.
Aydali CampaJuly 15, 2024
Leaving Venezuela: Omar and Alejandra’s Search for a Better Life
Over two years ago, migrants from South and Central America started arriving in Chicago by bus and planes. Here are two of their stories.
Buying a Home is Hard. It’s Even More Difficult When You’re Undocumented.
Undocumented immigrants have long faced a narrow path to homeownership, but in recent years, some local community banks are slowly expanding lending options to help noncitizens realize their dream of owning a home.
Aydali CampaJuly 2, 2024
What You Need To Know About The New Protections For Undocumented Spouses of U.S. Citizens
The Biden administration announced a plan to offer protection for noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens.
Tara MobasherJune 18, 2024
What You Need to Know About the New Border Restrictions
President Joe Biden’s directive temporarily closes the border to asylum seekers until the seven-day crossing averages decrease.
Tara MobasherJune 5, 2024
Ana: A Ukrainian Refugee’s Story on the Trauma of War
After fleeing the war in Ukraine, Ana lives paycheck to paycheck in Illinois. Amid the lasting trauma from the Russian invasion — and the heartbreak of leaving family behind — she longs to return home.
Diane Bou KhalilJune 3, 2024
What You Need to Know About Immigration News This Week
Students say the University of Chicago is withholding their degrees for participating in antiwar encampments, Work Permits for All gets support from the Illinois General Assembly, and more.
Diane Bou KhalilMay 29, 2024
Afghan Refugee Recalls Surviving a Bomb and Fleeing Afghanistan
Nekbahkt, a Hazara Afghan woman and double amputee, was forced to flee Afghanistan leaving behind her husband and disabled brother. She now awaits to be reunited with her husband.
Diane Bou KhalilMay 28, 2024
Lost in translation: Migrant kids struggle in segregated Chicago schools
Two years after busloads of migrant children began arriving in Chicago, many have landed in schools where most don’t speak Spanish. Custodians and kindergarten teachers are taking on the role of translator, but students are still falling behind.
Borderless Magazine’s Favorite Photos of 2023 — and the Stories Behind Them
From a Venezuelan family’s long-awaited reunion to our Black Immigrants Today series, Borderless Magazine’s visual journalists amplified the stories of Chicago’s immigrant communities.
Borderless Magazine’s Top Stories of 2023
A long-delayed radiation cleanup, an all-women mariachi band, Afghans building community through soccer, and more stories Borderless reported on Chicago’s immigrant communities.
Mauricio PeñaDecember 26, 2023
Chicago Mayor, Shelter Officials Respond to Living Conditions Following a Borderless Investigation
The response comes just days after a 5-year-old boy fell sick and died, and others were hospitalized.
Two months on, Chicagoans grapple with the devastation of the Gaza war
Local Palestinians and Jewish people are mourning the deaths of people in Israel and Gaza and calling for an end to the war.
Diane Bou KhalilDecember 20, 2023
5-Year-Old Boy Dies After Falling Ill At Chicago’s Largest Migrant Shelter
The death of the boy comes just days after a Borderless investigation found inhumane living conditions at the shelter in Pilsen.
Mauricio PeñaDecember 18, 2023
A Chicago faith-based nonprofit furnishes homes for asylum seekers
New Life Centers' New Vecino program, funded by the state, provides asylum seekers with wraparound services and furniture for new apartments.
Sebastian HidalgoDecember 4, 2023
What Does The City’s New 60-Day Shelter Limit Mean For Migrants In Chicago?
Volunteers fear the shelter limit is going to create a “new sh-tshow” when folks are forced to leave — and push more people into homelessness.
How the Pilsen Food Pantry Expanded to Serve Venezuelan Migrants
The Pilsen Food Pantry provides essentials, including food, clothing, and sleeping bags, to new migrants living in local police stations and shelters.
Chelsea VerstegenNovember 20, 2023
Illinois bill seeks to bolster language services at state agencies
A language access bill making its way through Springfield would create a new office tasked with bringing interpretation and translation services to state agencies for many non-native English speakers.
Maia McDonaldOctober 30, 2023
Sheltered in a Chicago Fieldhouse, Migrants Dream of Better Future
Inside a temporary shelter in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood, six migrant families share their memories of home, hopes for the future and what it is like living in tight quarters with 200 people.
Efrain SorianoAugust 30, 2023
Illinois Lawmakers and Immigrant Advocates Push to End the Sale of Personal Data to ICE
As a lawsuit against data broker LexisNexis awaits court determination, local advocates and officials look to amend Cook County’s ICE detainer ordinance.
Chelsea VerstegenJuly 11, 2023
After Five Long Years, a Venezuelan Family Is Reunited
Frank Sandoval had to leave Venezuela to save his life. He became a lawyer to help others seek asylum. After a five-year process, he was reunited with his wife and daughter in Chicago.
Chelsea VerstegenJune 2, 2023
