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A message from President Greg Kelley.

Dear union family member,

After watching events unfold in DC and LA on the news, those of us in Chicago have been put on notice that our city is the next intended target for National Guard deployment from our Federal government—supposedly in the interest of stopping “crime.” But we know that the real intent is to stop dissent and free speech and to scare and attempt to divide our communities.

We’ve heard from a lot of members expressing concern about these threats—and I want to let you know how we are responding to them.

First and foremost, I am writing to emphasize the truth that was made so abundantly clear in the incredible turnout for the Labor Day protests here and elsewhere earlier this week—that we are meeting these threats and this moment together, in solidarity and by offering one another love and support. And I’d like to emphasize that we are part of a larger movement that is coming together and taking action against these attacks on our communities, including Governor Pritzker, Mayor Brandon Johnson and our larger union family. 

Whatever unfolds, our union is deeply committed to keeping members informed every step of the way and to fighting back against the threat of authoritarianism.

Our understanding is that there’s the potential for ICE enforcement activity ahead of any National Guard deployment.

In this moment, we are working to ensure that you have the support, resources, and information you may need as this situation develops.

Together, we have time and again witnessed the power of solidarity. And we know that solidarity is the only strategy that can take down tyrants—which is why we must all focus our efforts on building solidarity in the days, weeks and months ahead.

Here is how we are preparing to face this moment together:

• We encourage all members to read and share the following Know Your Right resources to prepare for the possibility of increased ICE activity:
• We will make members aware of ways to come together in unity when a National Guard deployment is confirmed.

• If you spot ICE in your community and need resources, please call our Member Resource Center at 866-933-7348 and the ICIRR Family Support Hotline at 855-435-7693. 
• Join our Fight Back Fight Forward team to take further action to protect our communities and stand up for our union rights.

We deeply appreciate the solidarity and commitment to care—in every sense of the word—you’ve displayed in these times of escalating threats—and we will continue to share updates and resources as events unfold.

With love and solidarity,

Greg Kelley
President, SEIU Healthcare IL IN MO KS