Chicago’s Mexican Independence Day Celebrations Affected by Trump’s Immigration Policy

CHICAGO (AP) – The upcoming Mexican Independence Day celebrations in Chicago have been overshadowed by President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to deploy National Guard troops and immigration agents in the city. Many Latino residents are feeling anxious, with some choosing to carry their U.S. passports and others hesitant to participate in public festivities. While the official holiday is on September 16, celebrations in Chicago typically last more than a week and draw hundreds of thousands of participants. Events began with a parade in the predominantly Mexican Pilsen neighborhood and are set to continue with car caravans and street parties.

This year, the usual jubilance of the celebrations is dampened by Trump’s threats to escalate federal immigration enforcement in Chicago, similar to actions taken in Los Angeles. His administration has recently increased immigration interventions and deployed troops to various cities, including Washington, D.C., as part of what critics label a law enforcement takeover.

On social media, Trump shared an illustration depicting himself against a Chicago skyline engulfed in flames, which added to the unease within the community.

Trump Uses Government Power Against Opponents

WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump is employing governmental power to settle personal grievances and promote his agenda. Recently, he likened his political strategies to a poker game, asserting, “We have much bigger and better cards than they do,” indicating that he believes he holds an advantage over global competitors like China and Canada. Since taking office, he has accumulated considerable power which he has wielded against various entities, including media organizations, universities, and political opponents.

Seven months into his second term, Trump is seen as intensifying the government's power against those he perceives as adversaries. Supporters appear unfazed, encouraging his aggressive tactics against Democratic leaders.

Israel Issues Evacuation Orders in Gaza amid Growing Crisis

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) – The Israeli army has urged residents in Gaza City to evacuate, while conducting operations targeting high-rise buildings. As these actions unfold, humanitarian organizations express concern that a mass evacuation would worsen the dire conditions in Gaza City, where widespread famine has been reported due to ongoing Israeli restrictions. Many families have been displaced by the war, and residents like Nadia Marouf lament the lack of safe places to seek refuge, recently losing her temporary shelter to an airstrike.

Major Immigration Raid at Georgia Manufacturing Plant

Georgia saw a significant immigration raid where 475 individuals, mostly South Korean nationals, were detained at a Hyundai manufacturing site. This operation was part of an ongoing initiative linked to the Trump administration's tough immigration policies and is notable for its unprecedented scale and target demographic. Footage of the raid shows federal agents setting workers in line outside the facility, leading to the visible distress of the detainees.

Biden Selects Delaware for Presidential Library

WASHINGTON (AP) – Former President Joe Biden has chosen Delaware as the location for his presidential library. A 13-member governance board has been established to oversee fundraising efforts, spearheaded by Democratic figures and allies. The task at hand is particularly challenging due to increasing divisions within the Democratic Party and reluctance from some major donors, spurred by Trump’s constant critique of Biden and his affiliations with progressive groups.

U.S. Plans Deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Eswatini

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has announced plans to deport Kilmar Abrego Garcia to Eswatini, despite his expressed fears regarding potential torture in Uganda. This decision follows a controversial history involving Abrego Garcia's illegal immigration and subsequent deportation, which ignited legal debates surrounding the extent of Trump’s immigration policies.

Calls for Resignation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

WASHINGTON (AP) – Family members of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are urging his resignation from his post as secretary of Health and Human Services following a contentious Senate hearing. Critics within his family have labeled him a “threat” to public health due to his positions on COVID-19 vaccines and management of federal health agencies, showcasing a familial and political rift within one of America's prominent political families.

LGBTQ+ Catholics Gather for Pilgrimage to Rome

VATICAN CITY (AP) – Over 1,000 LGBTQ+ Catholics made a pilgrimage to Rome, signifying a turning point in acceptance within the Church. Participants expressed profound emotions as they crossed the Holy Door of St. Peter’s Basilica, marking a historic moment in their advocacy for inclusion. The event reflects a growing acknowledgment within the Catholic Church, attributed to Pope Francis, as various LGBTQ+ advocacy groups came together for this significant pilgrimage.

Mahjong Nights Become Popular in San Francisco

San Francisco (AP) – The classic Chinese game of mahjong is experiencing a resurgence among younger crowds in San Francisco. Ryan Lee, a 25-year-old Chinese American, has successfully organized mahjong nights and pop-up events that attract a diverse community seeking social engagement. His Youth Luck Leisure Mahjong Club hosts bimonthly gatherings, highlighting a cultural revival and a desire for communal experiences away from screens.

Davey Johnson, Celebrated Baseball Manager, Dies at 82

NEW YORK (AP) – Davey Johnson, who famously managed the New York Mets to a World Series victory in 1986, passed away at the age of 82. His dynamic leadership was instrumental in shaping the team’s performance and inspiring players to embrace their individuality while striving for excellence. Johnson's legacy endures in the memories of fans and players alike, marking him as a significant figure in baseball history.