The village of Broadview, Illinois, has issued a new executive order restricting where and when protests may occur near its Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility. The move comes after 15 arrests during demonstrations last Saturday, according to local officials.
Mayor Katrina Thompson defended the changes, saying protesters were causing disruption and posing safety risks to residents. “Too many protesters are raising their fists rather than their voices,” she said, adding that Broadview residents “lack the protestors’ privilege to return to calm, quiet neighborhoods for undisturbed rest.”
Under the order, protests will only be permitted in a designated “safety zone” located on Beech Street, adjacent to the ICE facility. The village has also limited protest activity to the hours of 9 a.m. through 6 p.m. Thompson emphasized that while peaceful protest is allowed, it cannot interfere with public safety or the quality of life for residents.
The mayor cited traffic concerns as another motivating factor. She expressed concern that protesters were darting onto 25th Avenue— a busy four-lane road—putting themselves and motorists at risk. The new rules aim to balance free speech rights with safety and order.
Illinois State Police, in coordination with local and state agencies, have established a unified command structure to enforce the new rules. They will guide protesters into the permissible zone while ensuring access remains open for legal representatives, medical personnel, and those needed to support detainees at the facility.
Thompson reiterated her support for peaceful protest while stressing her responsibility to safeguard the village. “They deserve stability, safety, and respect,” she said, referring to Broadview residents.
