Letter From the Editor: Reporting From ‘A War On Our Democracy’
We do not live in a war zone, and yet, politicians insist on weaponizing immigrants.
Mauricio PeñaJune 17, 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
As Trump Tariffs Drive Up Prices, Pilsen’s Second-Hand Shops Hope For A Boom In Business
Vintage store owners hope tariffs on imported clothes and collectibles could boost sales in secondhand shops in neighborhoods like Pilsen.
Aydali CampaJune 10, 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
Chicago Community Demands Release of Grandmother from ICE Detention
Gladis Yolanda Chavez Pineda is among the latest immigrants detained as Trump ramps up detentions across the country.
Lucy BaptisteJune 6, 2025
From a Cup Of Coffee With My Father to Brewing a Business: The Story of Mai Coffee
After the passing of his father, Alan Phung discovered his roots through coffee.
Fatema HosseiniJune 5, 2025
ICE Agents Arrest 2 Pilsen Men At Carnitas Restaurant, Home, Officials Say
Federal agents arrested two men Monday at Pilsen’s Carnitas Don Pedro and a nearby home. Agents did not present a warrant for the arrests, which were captured on video, Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez said.
Francia Garcia Hernandez, Block Club ChicagoJune 4, 2025
ICE Target Noncitizens as Cases Dismissed in Immigration Court in Chicago
Federal agents are detaining immigrants immediately after court hearings, raising concerns over due process.
Illinois and Advocacy Groups Launch Online Resource for Immigrant Families
The immigrant rights resource site provides guidance on Know Your Rights and what to do if one’s loved one is detained.
Tara MobasherJune 3, 2025
How a Latino Psychologist Aims to Break Mental Health Stigmas in Immigrant Communities
Dr. Ricardo Camacho, founder of Salud, spoke to Borderless about the importance of mental health support through community connection.
Tara MobasherMay 30, 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
From Shakira to Don Omar: Borderless Captures Sueños Festival 2025
Sueños Music Festival returned for its 4th year to Grant Park, celebrating Latin culture and music.
Chicago’s Cambodian Heritage Museum Promotes Healing While Remembering Victims of Genocide
The National Cambodian Heritage Museum will host events aiming to cultivate culture and reunite Chicago’s Cambodian American community with its roots.
Samantha MonjeMay 20, 2025
The rush in Illinois to become a U.S. citizen amid immigration crackdown
As the Trump administration begins “social media vetting for anti-Americanism” among immigrants and other efforts, growing numbers are choosing to become citizens.
Adriana Cardona-Maguigad/WBEZMay 15, 2025
Trump’s Tariffs Raising Prices in Chicago’s Immigrant-Owned Grocery Stores
Local grocers and consumers are feeling the pinch as new tariffs drive up the cost of imported food.
Fatema HosseiniMay 13, 2025
Little Village Cancels Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade: ‘There is Nothing to Celebrate’
Little Village’s annual Cinco de Mayo parade was cancelled amid fears of ICE raids, organizers said.
Tara MobasherMay 5, 2025
‘We Feel Like We Hit a Brick Wall’: Migrant Soup Kitchen Faces Eviction
The eviction case comes as Chicago migrants are facing a triple crisis – homelessness, food insecurity and increased deportations under Trump.
May Day Protests Draw Thousands in Chicago, Calling for End to Deportations
Labor and immigrant advocates gathered at Chicago’s Union Park to protest President Trump’s immigration policies and escalating ICE arrests.
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
Chicagoans Mourn Pope Francis: ‘The People’s Pope’
Local parishioners and faith and political leaders recalled Pope Francis’ legacy and his “love for the people.”
Francia Garcia Hernandez, Block Club ChicagoApril 22, 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
Environmental Advocates Rally in Support of New Ordinance to Change Zoning and Address Pollution
An ordinance introduced in City Council on Wednesday would address zoning and land use policies the federal government found to be environmentally discriminatory toward communities of color in the South and West Sides.
Aydali CampaApril 17, 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
Pritzker’s Proposed Budget Will Take Away Health Coverage From Some Immigrants Without Legal Status
Earlier this year, Gov. J.B. Pritzker unveiled his proposed $55.2 billion budget for 2026. The plan would eliminate funding for the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program, which provides healthcare to undocumented immigrants between the ages of 42 and 64.
Tara MobasherApril 9, 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 Department of Public Health Faces Capacity Hurdles With Environmental Inspections
Commissioner Dr. Olusimbo Ige said the department faced hurdles in its environmental efforts, including limited capacity to carry out more inspections at a hearing before the City Council Committee on Environmental Protections and Energy.
Aydali CampaApril 2, 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
Chicago Department of Public Health Set to Defend Environmental Justice Efforts at Committee Hearing
Chicago Department of Public Health Set to Defend Environmental Justice Efforts at Committee Hearing
The hearing comes as environmental justice advocates grow impatient with the city's unfulfilled promises to install 140 air pollution sensors and pass a cumulative impacts ordinance to protect communities overburdened by pollution.
Aydali CampaMarch 27, 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
Join Borderless Magazine for a House Party at Haymarket House
Support Borderless Magazine’s immigration reporting with drinks, food and live house music at Haymarket House.
Sarah LuyengiMarch 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
How Chicago’s Immigrant Communities Celebrate Nowruz Away From Home
Spring kicks off the return of Nowruz, a 3,000-year-old celebration that marks the start of the Persian calendar year.
ICE Illegally Arrested 22 People In The Midwest Since Trump Took Office, New Lawsuit Alleges
The National Immigration Justice Center and the ACLU of Illinois are alleging that ICE violated a 2022 federal settlement. A U.S. citizen was among those arrested near Chicago.
Francia Garcia Hernandez, Block Club ChicagoMarch 19, 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
Palestinian American Playwright Examines Family Dynamics in ‘The Cave’
In her debut play, Sadieh Rifai draws on her family's move from Nevada to Ohio with her Palestinian-American family as they deal with grief, mental illness and global turmoil.
Tara MobasherMarch 13, 2025
‘We Need To Be the Allies That We Wish We Had In 1942’
Descendants of Japanese Americans incarcerated during WWII gathered to remember the injustices of detention camps while calling for solidarity with other immigrant communities impacted by Trump’s sweeping immigration policies.
Katrina PhamMarch 11, 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.
How Technology Could Aid Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
From ankle monitors to biometric data collection, the Trump administration could use AI technology in its immigration enforcement actions.
Chelsea VerstegenMarch 4, 2025
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
State Regulators Rein in Peoples Gas Pipeline Replacement Effort After State Investigation
The Illinois Commerce Commission gave Peoples Gas the green light to resume work to replace Chicago's natural pipelines that pose safety risks with some exceptions.
Aydali CampaFebruary 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.
Rwanda Refugee Guides Newcomers Starting New Lives in Chicago: ‘I’m in the Right Place’
David spent most of his childhood in a Zimbabwe refugee camp before resettling in the United States. He now helps refugees start a new life in Chicago.
Aydali CampaFebruary 11, 2025
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.”
Turkish Influencer Shares Vibrant Culture with Chicago
When much of the world was locked down in early 2020, Hatice Özge Akbudak started documenting her journey in America. Now, she has a dedicated following as she elevates her culture and explores Chicago.
Tara MobasherOctober 8, 2024
Finding a Fix for Playgrounds That Are Too Hot to Touch
In Arizona, researchers are studying playgrounds where the equipment gets so hot it can burn kids’ skin. As heat worsens nationwide, Chicago and other communities will need to take note.
Wyatt Myskow Inside Climate NewsSeptember 24, 2024
What Immigrants Should Know About Buying a Home in Chicago
Immigration status can complicate a person's path to homeownership. Still, there are ways to prepare for home-buying, such as improving your credit and getting an ITIN number.
Andrea FloresSeptember 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
Borderless Wins National Journalistic Impact Award
The nonprofit news outlet’s investigations into Chicago migrant shelters were recognized at the 2024 LION Awards.
Nissa RheeSeptember 12, 2024
Chicago-Based Iranian Artist Explores Confinement with the Help of Her House Plants
Laleh Motlagh describes how she discovered art, women's rights in Iran, and her latest exhibit, "Entanglement."
Tara MobasherSeptember 5, 2024
Life for Women in Iran: ‘They Want to Own Our Minds’
The Islamic Revolution ushered in a new normal for Iranian women. Some have fled, while others have built a life in the country despite the adversity.
Tara MobasherSeptember 4, 2024
Iranians Face Stringent Screening for a Chance to Study in the U.S.
Many students face canceled visa interview appointments, months-long waits and unexplained rejections, jeopardizing their attendance at American Universities.
Tara MobasherSeptember 3, 2024
I Helped My Immigrant Parents Buy A Home. Now I Help Families Become Homeowners
Gerardo Revelo helped his parents navigate the homeownership process when he was younger. He now guides hundreds of families on the home-buying journey.
Tara MobasherAugust 29, 2024
How an Immigrant Family Bought a Home With the Help of a Chicago Nonprofit
After leaving Mexico with her family, Erika Ayala and her husband spent a decade working to buy a home. The Resurrection Project helped them navigate the challenges undocumented immigrants face to become homeowners.
Martha ContrerasAugust 27, 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
City Officials Attempt to Allay Residents’ Fears as Partial Demolition Looms in Pilsen
As Midwest Generation Fisk Station owners move to remove a cracked and leaning silo at the site, residents called for high-quality air monitors and more communication from the city about the demolition process.
Aydali CampaAugust 8, 2024
Day Laborers Say They Are Being Beaten, Harassed Outside Home Depot By Off-Duty Cops
Criminal trespassing arrests have skyrocketed at a Southwest Side Home Depot as recently arrived migrants seek work, and day laborers say they’re being mistreated as a result.
Sebastián Hidalgo / City BureauAugust 6, 2024
Cicero Plans to Construct Green Alleys as Residents Call for Flood Prevention Action
After the July 2023 rainstorm that impacted Cicero residents, the Town of Cicero offers upgrades on residents’ alleyways that reduce flooding via a petition. However, some residents aren’t aware of this opportunity.
Aydali CampaAugust 1, 2024
5 Things To Know About Your Rights As a Day Laborer in Illinois
From wage theft to unsafe work sites, how to navigate your rights as a day laborer regardless of immigration status in Illinois.
Stephen FranklinJuly 30, 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
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
How to Apply for Financial Assistance as an Undocumented Student
Undocumented students entering college can’t apply for federal financial aid, but some local and national scholarships and assistance attempt to bridge this gap.
Tara MobasherJune 25, 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
Where to Find Cooling Centers During Chicago’s Heatwave
How to stay cool and avoid heatstroke in the city and suburbs during the “heat dome.”
Diane Bou KhalilJune 17, 2024
How to Get Free Birth Control Regardless of Immigration Status in Illinois
A state program gives access to temporary coverage for reproductive health services, including birth control and STD testing.
Katrina PhamJune 10, 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
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.
5 Things to Know When Preparing For Immigration Court Without a Lawyer
Getting an attorney can be expensive and hard to find. Here are tips curated by Borderless on how to navigate immigration court.
Katrina PhamMay 14, 2024
Life in Legal Limbo: Navigating Chicago’s Immigration Court Alone
Fighting for a chance to stay, many immigrants wade alone through backlogs and attorney shortages that plague the immigration court system.
After Decades of Disinvestment, Black and Latino Leaders Want ‘Profound Transformation’ Amid Migrant Crisis
Although tensions have flared throughout the humanitarian crisis, Black and Brown leaders see an opportunity to unite and advocate for Chicago’s South and West Sides.
Deborah D. DouglasApril 29, 2024
Chicago’s Longtime Undocumented Immigrants Push Feds for Work Permits: ‘Why Not Us?’
As new arrivals receive federal work authorization, many undocumented immigrants are stepping out of the shadows and demanding work permits after waiting for decades.
Jacqueline CardenasApril 29, 2024
Federal Judge Approves $12 Million Settlement Over Botched Hilco Implosion
Despite the settlement, Little Village residents still worry about the long-term health impacts of the implosion and the diesel trucks coming from the new warehouse.
Aydali CampaApril 22, 2024
Chicago Approves Weekly Reports On Migrant Shelter Evictions
Under the new ordinance, city departments must make public weekly reports on migrant evictions starting in May.
Katrina PhamApril 17, 2024
Resource Guides for Immigrants in Chicago
From food assistance to mental health support, we compiled all of our resource guides in one place.
Borderless Magazine StaffApril 15, 2024
The Revival of Chicago’s Filipino American Rizal Center
After a protracted legal battle over the building's ownership, Filipino immigrants and Filipino Americans have banded together to restore a community center to its former glory.
Katrina PhamApril 8, 2024
Chicago Officials Confirm TB Cases at Migrant Shelters
The cases add to the mounting concerns about health conditions at the city’s migrant shelters following the death of a 5-year-old and an outbreak of measles cases.
Harmony in Hardship: Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Refugees Bring Immigrant Stories to Life with Music
For one night, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago Refugee Coalition turned inspirational immigrant stories into a musical journey to bring awareness of the current migrant crisis.
Chelsea VerstegenApril 1, 2024
Chicago Ordinance Would Require Weekly Reports on Migrant Shelter Evictions
If passed by the full City Council, the measure will require departments to report anonymized data on evicted migrants’ age, gender and length of shelter stay.
Katrina PhamMarch 28, 2024
U.S. Immigration Application Fees Increase Next Month. Here’s What You Should Know
For the first time in seven years, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services is increasing application fees for several individual, family, and employer applications.
Chelsea VerstegenMarch 25, 2024
Hilco Must Pay Little Village Residents $12.25 Million Settlement Over Botched Implosion
Little Village residents, property owners and anyone present during the Easter weekend implosion can submit a settlement claim by Tuesday, March 26.
Katrina PhamMarch 20, 2024
Migrants Navigate State’s Apartment Program On Their Own As Evictions Loom and Help Runs Dry
The Asylum Seeker Emergency Rental Assistance Program has helped 4,600 households move into apartments. But some migrants supported by the program could lose their homes if they can’t find work.
How a Chicago Nonprofit Creates Community To Empower Middle Eastern and Arab Women
The Middle Eastern Immigrant and Refugee Alliance (MIRA) launched a women's empowerment group last fall to foster community and teach essential life skills.
Diane Bou KhalilMarch 15, 2024
CDC to Help Chicago After 4 Cases of Measles at Largest Migrant Shelter
A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention team would help city health officials manage measles cases across Chicago.
Mauricio PeñaMarch 11, 2024
7 Things Migrants Should Know About Upcoming Shelter Evictions
Chicago’s 60-day shelter limits will kick in soon. Borderless answers questions on how to access community, city and state resources.
Katrina PhamMarch 5, 2024
Investigation: Chicago Ignored Dozens of Warnings of Migrant Shelter Conditions Before Child’s Death
Investigation: Chicago Ignored Dozens of Warnings of Migrant Shelter Conditions Before Child’s Death
Despite warnings, numerous hospitalizations and dozens of reports, Chicago officials continuously funneled thousands of migrants into an industrial warehouse that was never meant to house people.
Little Amal Comes to Chicago With a Message of Hope for Refugees
The 12-foot-tall puppet tells the story of a 10-year-old Syrian refugee separated from her family.
Diane Bou KhalilOctober 6, 2023
Newly-arrived Venezuelan migrants can now apply for TPS protections. Here’s How.
The Department of Homeland Security announced Wednesday they would be extending and redesignating Temporary Protected Status for Venezuela, allowing Venezuelan immigrants to receive temporary permissions to live and work in the United States.
Pushing Boundaries: How a Pakistani African American Drag King Burst into Chicago’s Drag Scene
D’Cameron May stepped onto the drag stage four years ago. Now, they have a home among Chicago’s queer immigrant scene.
Katrina PhamSeptember 19, 2023
