CHICAGO— In response to the decision issued by the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirming past rulings which extended the Castañon Nava Consent Decree and ordered the release of individuals unlawfully arrested without warrants by federal immigration agents, Mayor Brandon Johnson issued the following statement:
“This decision is an affirmation of constitutional rights and the rule of law.
The Court has made clear that federal immigration enforcement must operate within the bounds of the Constitution, and that warrantless arrests without probable cause cannot stand.
“Respect for due process, judicial oversight, and basic civil liberties cannot be selective.
This decision must also serve as a clear directive to federal immigration agencies.
The federal administration must comply with the Courts ruling and ensure enforcement practices align with constitutional standards moving forward.
There can be no ambiguity or delay when it comes to upholding constitutional rights.
“Chicago stands with the families, advocates, and legal partners who have fought tirelessly to expose unlawful detention practices and secure relief for those impacted. We are deeply grateful for the work of the National Immigrant Justice Center, the ACLU of Illinois, the Illinois Coalition of Immigrant and Refugee Rights and legal advocates who continue to ensure that justice is not only promised but enforced. No one should be subjected to unlawful arrest or detention, and today’s ruling moves us closer to a system rooted in fairness, transparency, and respect for human dignity.
“My administration will continue to support immigrant communities and advocate for policies that protect residents’ constitutional rights, regardless of status.
We remain committed to ensuring that Chicago is a welcoming city where every person can feel safe, access opportunity, and build a better future.”