Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is calling on President Biden to grant work permits to nearly 500,000 illegal migrants living in the state, as well as welcoming an additional 400,000 to 700,000 illegal migrants to the city. He emphasizes the need for economic opportunities for undocumented individuals to build a better life in Chicago. Johnson, along with dozens of other city mayors, wrote a letter to the Biden administration advocating for more work permits to be issued to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the city.
Despite the overwhelming challenges faced by Chicago due to the influx of illegal migrants, Johnson remains committed to supporting immigrant communities and ensuring an inclusive and equitable future for all residents. The slow rollout of work permits has left the city struggling to manage the crisis and overcrowded shelters. City leaders have been pushing for additional permits for new arrivals as well as extensions for existing ones. This year’s work permits are set to expire on April 24, prompting urgent action from the Biden administration.
In response to the calls from city mayors, the administration announced an extension from 180 to 540 days for certain categories of illegal migrants to prevent a lapse in employment authorization. While it is unclear how many of Chicago’s illegal migrants will be eligible for these extensions, the move is seen as a step towards addressing the challenges faced by the city. Last year, Mayor Johnson faced criticism from residents who were frustrated by the arrival of illegal migrants in their neighborhoods, with over 20,000 migrants arriving in the city since August 2022.
Mayor Johnson’s push for work permits for illegal migrants is part of his broader vision for Chicago as a welcoming and inclusive city that does not turn its back on those seeking a better life. Along with other city leaders, he is advocating for measures to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and support immigrant communities. The administration’s decision to extend work permits is a response to the urgent needs of cities like Chicago, where the growing number of arrivals has put a strain on resources and services.
While the debate over illegal migration is ongoing, Mayor Johnson’s focus remains on providing economic opportunities and support for undocumented individuals in Chicago. The mayor acknowledges the challenges faced by the city but remains committed to ensuring that all residents have a chance to build a better life. By advocating for work permits and extensions, Johnson is working towards a more inclusive and equitable future for Chicago and its immigrant communities, despite the complex issues surrounding illegal migration and the need for comprehensive solutions.
