Waukegan braces for immigrant rally

The Associated Press
Published July 16, 2007, 4:49 AM CDT

Authorities in Waukegan are preparing today for thousands of people expected to descend on the downtown area to protest the city's proposed extension of immigration enforcement.

Waukegan Police Chief William Biang said his department is working with other local agencies to beef up enforcement for an announced rally that will coincide with a City Council meeting this evening.


The City Council will be voting to reconsider application for 287-g authorization, which would eventually give Waukegan police the authority to begin deportation proceedings for illegal immigrants convicted of violent crimes.

Though thousands of people are expected at the rally, only about 175 will fit in council chambers. Admission will be granted only to those who have tickets, which will be distributed at Waukegan's south beach, beginning at 4 p.m.