Sunday

07-27-2025 Vol 2034

Controversial Judicial Changes and New Legislation in Illinois Spark Debate

In a significant move aligning with President Donald Trump’s immigration policies, two immigration judges in Chicago have been dismissed following a nationwide shakeup.

Assistant Chief Immigration Judge Jennifer Peyton and Judge Carla Espinoza were among the judges removed from their positions in early July as part of a broader initiative perceived to advance the Trump administration’s ‘mass deportation’ strategy.

Their removal coincided with reports of alarming tactics employed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in immigration courts across the United States, leading to allegations of severe due process violations against vulnerable individuals attending immigration hearings.

A federal lawsuit filed on July 16 argues that federal officials have been depriving individuals of their fundamental rights by abruptly dismissing cases and moving swiftly to deport those seeking asylum.

Jennifer Peyton shared with ABC7 that immigration judges like her were required to lower their standards when considering dismissals, emphasizing that they received specific orders to adjudicate such cases immediately, rather than allowing time for responses.

Between 2019 and 2024, Peyton achieved a significantly higher than average approval rate for asylum claims at 86 percent, compared to the national average of about 57.7 percent.

Despite her compliance with the administration’s directives, Advocate Kristi Nelson from Chicago’s immigration court expressed her dissatisfaction with the work environment, leading to her resignation in April.

As judges lose their positions, federal agents have been observed taking aggressive actions in court, often taking people into custody under dubious circumstances.

The implications of such actions raise serious questions regarding the erosion of judicial independence, as unlike traditional courts, U.S. immigration courts are controlled by the executive branch, resulting in a system that may prioritize policy agendas over due process.

In local legislative news, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has signed an “anti-squatter” bill that allows law enforcement to bypass the traditional eviction process in cases of criminal trespass.

Previously, property disputes were classified as civil matters, which mandated that landlords acquire a court order to evict individuals accused of squatting.

Now, however, the new law clarifies that law enforcement has the authority to remove individuals from properties without pursuing court intervention if they are suspected of criminal trespass.

The measure, sponsored by State Senator Lakesia Collins, received overwhelming support in the General Assembly, with only a single dissenting vote cast by Republican Senator Andrew Chesney from Freeport.

Criminal trespass is defined under the new law as entering or remaining on property without lawful authority or misrepresenting oneself to gain access.

State lawmakers have pursued changes to eviction protections for alleged squatters for several years, bolstered by sensationalized media reports that raised alarms about squatting incidents, particularly in the Chicago suburbs.

Despite these fears, substantial evidence to support claims of a widespread “crisis” remains elusive.

Comments from legal experts suggest that the squatting issue may not be as pervasive as portrayed, with one real estate attorney noting, “I wouldn’t say it’s prevalent.”

Pritzker’s commitment to signing the bill was amplified by local news stories illustrating instances of squatters allegedly occupying neighboring homes, including one case involving State Representative Marcus Evans.

In a separate development in the community, Chicago’s Disability Pride Parade is set to take place on Saturday, July 26, marking an important moment to celebrate diversity and inclusion in light of the upcoming 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act in 2025.

The parade, organized by a team of volunteers representing various disability organizations, aims to promote equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities while honoring their contributions to society.

Scheduled to kick off at 11 AM in the Loop, the parade will feature Rachel Arfa as this year’s grand marshal, who serves both as a member of the disability community and commissioner for the Mayor’s Office for People With Disabilities.

The parade’s route will start near Plymouth and Van Buren, proceeding west on Van Buren to Dearborn, before heading north and concluding at Daley Plaza, where attendees can participate in post-parade activities including live music and a vendor village.

The event offers an open mic night on the evening prior, inviting community members to share their experiences and talents in a friendly, supportive environment.

Residents interested in participating in the parade can register until the morning of the event, with more details available at the official Disability Pride Parade website.

As the nation navigates ongoing debates about immigration and property rights, and simultaneously honors the contributions of the disabled community, the actions taken by local and federal leaders continue to ignite discussions about rights, protections, and inclusion.

image source from:chicagoreader

Abigail Harper