Kane County Reporter

The Mayor and City Council of Elgin have expressed concern over recent federal immigration enforcement tactics, stating that these actions are causing anxiety among residents, workers, and visitors. In a statement released on October 1, 2025, city officials emphasized the community's diversity as a source of strength.

"Elgin is shaped by people from many backgrounds, languages and traditions, and the city’s strength comes from that diversity. Families who have built their lives here are not outsiders — they are woven into the fabric of this great and accepting city," the statement said.

City leaders reaffirmed their support for immigrants living in Elgin. "The City of Elgin remains committed to standing with its immigrant community."

Officials criticized the approach taken by federal authorities. "This city does not support the aggressive tactics being used during immigration enforcement by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. These tactics create fear, divide communities and make it harder for residents to feel safe when reaching out to police for help."

The statement noted that maintaining trust within the community is a priority for local government. The mayor and council recently passed a resolution urging lawmakers in Congress and the Illinois General Assembly to ban law enforcement officers from hiding their identities with masks during enforcement operations in Elgin.

Local police do not participate in federal civil immigration enforcement, according to city officials. "To be certain, the Elgin Police Department does not participate in federal civil immigration enforcement, and this departmental practice has been in place long before the Illinois Trust Act was enacted in 2017." The Trust Act prohibits local police departments across Illinois from carrying out federal immigration enforcement or honoring ICE detainer requests.

Those seeking more information about immigration rights can consult guidance provided by Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul at http://bit.ly/46Krcu9.

Addressing those who may feel at risk due to increased enforcement efforts, officials stated: "To those who feel vulnerable, know you are valued members of the Elgin community — deserving of the same opportunities as anyone else to feel safe, to contribute and to belong. We implore all residents to look out for one another and to uphold the respect and dignity that distinguishes our city among others."