Rep. Lilly Responds to the Arrest of an Oak Park Man at Broadview ICE Facility

OAK PARK, ILL. State Rep. Camille Y. Lilly, D-Chicago, released the following statement after an Oak Park man was arrested at a protest outside of the ICE facility protest in Broadview last week: 

“It is deeply troubling that federal agents are infringing upon the fundamental right to free speech guaranteed under the First Amendment. Rather than ensuring public safety, ICE agents are creating fear and unrest in our communities. Their use of tear gas, pepper spray, and other forceful tactics against peaceful protestors is unacceptable and has also placed local law enforcement officers in harm’s way.

“The situation in Broadview has become increasingly concerning, prompting Mayor Katrina Thompson to issue executive orders to protect residents. What makes this even more personal for our community is the arrest of one of our own—Paul Ivery, a neurodivergent man who was at the facility to advocate for our state police officers and veterans. Reports indicate that Mr. Ivery was attacked by a Border Patrol officer following a verbal exchange before being taken into custody. This is unacceptable and alarming.

“ICE’s actions are already sowing chaos in our neighborhoods, and their mishandling of individuals with neurodivergent conditions only adds to the trauma and mistrust. My colleagues and I will not remain silent as these troubling incidents unfold. We will continue to stand firm in defending the rights, dignity, and safety of every person in our state.”