In Chicago, plastic whistles have become a surprising symbol of anti-ICE resistance. As U.S. immigration raids intensify under the Trump administration, residents across Latino neighbourhoods are using whistles to warn others when ICE agents or federal officers appear.
The simple, low-cost tool alerts undocumented people to hide and encourages citizens to record arrests or offer legal help. The movement, started by the Little Village Community Council, has spread rapidly.
Whistles are now handed out at parades, festivals, and even Little Free Libraries. Though officials dismiss them as ineffective, Chicago’s communities see the whistle protests as a small but powerful stand against fear and intimidation.
