Chicago, IL – As the winter chill settles in, the influx of migrants to Chicago has noticeably slowed, prompting some individuals to consider warmer destinations or even a return to their home countries. This shift comes in stark contrast to the summer months when double-digit daily bus arrivals were the norm.
According to Luciana Diaz, a dedicated volunteer assisting migrants, the recent Halloween day snow served as a harsh reality check for those residing at police stations. Diaz urged them to explore alternative shelters or consider relocating to more temperate cities.
“The snow day was freezing for everybody. I told them that this is nothing; I told them to start looking for other shelter or go to another city,” Diaz stated.
During Tuesday’s report, the city anticipated only two buses, underscoring the dwindling numbers. Migrants at the 1st and 12th Police District stations, facing the prospect of a harsh winter coupled with a lack of shelter and job opportunities, expressed a willingness to leave Chicago if given the chance. Some are even contemplating a return to their home countries.
Alderman Will Hall, who recently visited the U.S.-Mexico border, highlighted the changing narrative among migrants on social media. He stated that word is spreading that Chicago may not be the most conducive destination due to the cold weather and limited opportunities.
“People are beginning to get informed that it is cold, opportunities are scarce, and unless you want to sleep on a concrete mattress, don’t come – that is what those seeking asylum have said,” Hall commented.
Jorge Barrera, a 39-year-old migrant living at a police station for the past six months, expressed a desire to leave but faces financial constraints. Barrera revealed that some migrants harbor a disillusioned view of the so-called “American dream” and inquire about returning to their home countries, like Venezuela.
“They have an American dream in my opinion that is a fake American dream; they ask me a lot if I know somebody who can buy them a ticket to go back to Venezuela,” Barrera explained.
Despite the slowdown in arrivals, the city still grapples with a shortage of shelters for migrants residing at police stations. Two proposed base camps are weeks away from completion, aiming to provide much-needed accommodation for those seeking refuge.