UPDATE: A leader at the Little Village Chamber of Commerce has been terminated following a controversial video showing him thanking federal immigration agents on the same day they arrested multiple individuals in the neighborhood. The video, recorded on October 23, 2023, captures Olman Chaheine expressing gratitude to Border Patrol agents while tensions escalated in Little Village, a community heavily impacted by recent federal enforcement actions.
The incident occurred amid federal agents’ ongoing Operation Midway Blitz, where they have targeted local businesses and residents, prompting fear among both workers and customers. According to sources, agents have been detaining individuals during routine activities, leading to significant disruptions in the predominantly Latino area.
In the newly surfaced video, Chaheine can be seen engaging with Border Patrol agents near 26th Street and Sacramento Avenue, offering his support by stating, “My regards for all of you and the work that you guys are doing.” The video shows him fist-bumping an agent, which has drawn widespread criticism from community leaders and activists.
Following the release of the video, the Little Village Chamber of Commerce announced Chaheine’s departure, stating he is no longer affiliated with the organization “effective immediately.” However, details regarding whether he was fired or resigned remain unclear, as he has not responded to requests for comment.
In an official statement, the Chamber condemned Chaheine’s remarks, emphasizing that they do not reflect the Chamber’s mission to support and uplift immigrant families and local businesses. “These comments were made independently and are completely inconsistent with our long-standing commitment,” the statement read.
The confrontation on October 23 escalated as Border Patrol agents, including Chief Greg Bovino, deployed tear gas and pepper spray against protesters, injuring multiple individuals. Eyewitnesses reported that agents fired pepper balls at close range, despite existing court orders prohibiting the use of chemical agents against journalists and peaceful protesters.
Local Alderman Michael Rodriguez expressed relief at the Chamber’s decisive action, stating, “Accountability is very important. I’m glad that the Little Village Chamber of Commerce is owning up to their mission.” He praised the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting migrants and reaffirmed their stance against the recent actions taken by federal agents.
In response to the backlash, Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, a native of Little Village, voiced confidence that the Chamber represents the community’s true values, stating, “While the video in question is concerning, we are confident it does not represent the Chamber’s true values.”
The tension in Little Village continues as community members rally against federal enforcement actions that have disrupted their daily lives. As the situation develops, local leaders and activists are calling for transparency and accountability from both the Chamber and federal agents involved.
Residents are urged to stay informed as the community navigates these critical developments. Local businesses, already struggling amid the fear of immigration enforcement, are now facing an uphill battle for survival as tensions rise.
What to watch for: Community reactions and potential further actions from local leaders may unfold in the coming days as the impact of these events continues to resonate in Little Village.
