Anxiety surrounding potential ICE raids has swept across the United States, transforming Chicago's Little Village, a vibrant Mexican-American hub, into a desolate area. This predominantly Latino community, often referred to as the "Mexico of the Midwest," has experienced a significant decline in foot traffic since President Trump assumed office, according to a Fox 32 Chicago report.

Jennifer Aguilar, executive director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce, noted a stark contrast in weekend activity, typically a bustling period for the area. "The number of people out this weekend was drastically lower than normal," she told Fox 32. The two-mile stretch, known as Chicago's second busiest retail corridor, houses nearly 500 businesses, including shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

The downturn isn't solely attributable to cold weather, according to 22nd ward Alderman Michael Rodriguez, whose district encompasses Little Village. He believes the apprehension stems from fears of large-scale ICE raids within the community. "The fear is tangible. Our residents are openly expressing their concerns about ICE agents appearing at their homes, workplaces, places of worship, and schools. This is a serious problem," Rodriguez stated.

While community activist Leo Pargo, who has been monitoring the neighborhood for ICE activity, confirms no raids have occurred yet, the fear persists. "We've been patrolling Little Village and Pilsen, but so far, nothing," Pargo informed Fox 32.

Aguilar worries about the economic repercussions of this fear on the district, which reportedly generates $900 million in annual revenue. "It's a struggle to stay afloat, especially at this early stage. Business owners are anxious about the future," she expressed. She added that the situation negatively impacts anyone in Chicago who relies on city services.

As a sanctuary city, Chicago is directly confronting President Trump's immigration policies. During his inaugural address, the President vowed to halt illegal entry and deport millions of criminal aliens. Tom Homan, Trump's border czar, confirmed the deployment of ICE agents nationwide.

Despite the federal crackdown, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson remains defiant, pledging to uphold the 2017 Illinois Trust Act, which prohibits local law enforcement from collaborating with federal immigration authorities. "Chicago stands firm in its commitment to protect and support all its residents," Johnson affirmed in a social media post.