Chicago Immigrant Couple Faces Challenges Amid Immigration Crackdown

Mon Dec 01 2025 00:27:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Ofelia Herrera and Rafael Hernandez continue running their food stand in Little Village despite heightened Border Patrol activity in the area, reflecting the struggles and resilience of the immigrant community in Chicago.

In Chicago’s Little Village, immigrant couple Ofelia Herrera and Rafael Hernandez maintain their food stand amid a stringent immigration enforcement campaign that has instilled fear in many. While sales have plummeted, they persevere through their routines, emphasizing faith and community in the face of adversity.

CHICAGO (AP) — Despite a significant Border Patrol presence on a recent Saturday in Chicago’s Little Village, Ofelia Herrera, along with her husband Rafael Hernandez, remained undeterred as they operated their long-standing food stand offering Mexican-style corn and refreshing aguas frescas.

For 18 years, the couple has served their community from their food stall, a stark contrast to the atmosphere of fear that now grips many in the area due to increased immigration enforcement actions since early September. Sirens echoed through the streets when local police were called to assist Border Patrol amid protests against the crackdown.

While some individuals have retreated into their homes, succumbing to anxiety and depression, Herrera and Hernandez advocate for courage and faith. Fear leads to depression, and we choose to keep faith and hope, Herrera expressed during an interview at their South Side residence, which is already decorated for Christmas despite only being days past Halloween. Hernandez echoed her sentiments, noting the sad reality of friends who haven’t left their homes in months.

Food Stand in the Heart of Community

Herrera and Hernandez’s food stand, a vibrant spot adorned with American flags, is nestled in a bustling commercial district in Little Village filled with family-owned eateries and shops. Despite immigration-related fears, the area shows resilience with vendors and traditional music contributing to its lively atmosphere, attracting visitors from across Chicago.

The couple notes the profound impact of recent crackdowns on their business, reporting sales have plummeted by about 75% since the initiation of increased enforcement. Their phones buzz constantly with alerts regarding ICE activities, fostering further unease within the local immigrant community.

Chicago’s immigrant landscape has changed with the spotlight on enforcement actions, yet some, like Herrera and Hernandez, remain resolute. Having faced significant challenges since crossing the border illegally years ago, both maintain a pragmatic outlook towards their situation.

Resilience Amid Challenges

While contemplating the future, the couple’s desire for legal status remains complex due to financial limitations and uncertainties surrounding immigration laws. Still, their commitment to contribute to their community endures as they serve tacos and burritos from their yellow food truck, a small but vital reminder of their longstanding presence in Chicago.

As they navigate through uncertainties and challenges, Herrera articulated their commitment: We have lives here; we have children here. We don’t wish to go back to Mexico, but if it comes to it, we will have to be ready for that possibility. Their story serves as a reflection of the resilience found within immigrant communities across the U.S. amidst significant challenges.