Saturday, August 19, 2006

UMC Congregation in Chicago Used as Legal Sanctuary for Illegal Immigrants

From the Chicago Sun-Times:

A showdown that appeared imminent earlier this week between immigration officers and activist Elvira Arellano at the Humboldt Park church where she's staying to avoid deportation may not happen after all.

"We have no plans to enter the church to arrest Mrs. Arellano," a government official speaking on condition of anonymity said Friday.

Arellano, 31, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, has been staying with her 7-year-old son at Adalberto United Methodist Church, 2176 W. Division, since Tuesday -- the day she was to report to immigration authorities.

Officials with Immigration and Customs Enforcement have said the government considers Arellano a fugitive who will be arrested regardless of her location.

UPDATE: Wes Whiddon has thoughts on whether or not churches should harbor fugitives.

No comments: