Chicago Democrat Mayor Brandon Johnson faced accusations of prioritizing tens of thousands of migrants from the southern border over the needs of the Black community and homeless veterans on Thursday during a special council meeting meant to discuss the possibility of a referendum on Illinois' largest city's sanctuary status.

The Chicago City Council meeting commenced with an allocated period for public comments, as reported by Fox News.

However, councilors decided to adjourn without deliberating on a resolution "authorizing a referendum question to be submitted to the voters of City of Chicago whether Chicago should continue to keep its designation as a Sanctuary City" until it progresses beyond the committee stage.

Local Voices Express Concern

Lauren Lawrence, a lifelong Chicago resident, voiced her frustrations at the meeting. She criticized the sanctuary city policy for neglecting legal immigration processes and highlighted the increase in crime and disorder in the city.

Lawrence also accused the mayor of ignoring the needs of Chicago's Black communities on the West and South Sides, alleging that promised funds had not materialized.

Mayor Johnson, who took office in May, replacing former Mayor Lori Lightfoot, was specifically targeted for his executive order establishing a deputy mayor position focused on immigrant, migrant, and refugee rights.

This order, aimed at reinforcing Chicago's status as a sanctuary city, was seen by some as a neglect of local communities' long-standing issues.

Residents Prioritize Veterans and Homeless

Lawrence emphasized the need for fair treatment of legal residents, especially veterans and the homeless, who she feels are being overlooked in favor of migrants.

She pointed out that significant resources were being directed toward those entering the country illegally at the expense of lawful Chicagoans.

Alderman Demands Accountability

Alderman Anthony Beale expressed dismay at the council's decision to adjourn without addressing the sanctuary status referendum.

He questioned the mayor and council members' reluctance to let the city's residents voice their opinions. Beale accused the city's leadership of fearing the truth about its financial priorities and direction.

Financial Concerns and Migrant Aid

Beale highlighted the city's spending on migrants, contrasting it with the unmet needs of long-term, tax-paying residents, particularly in areas like housing and community resources.

He stressed the importance of prioritizing local citizens who have contributed to the city for years.

The Migrant Influx and Housing Challenges

As winter approaches, the state's decision to cancel plans for a migrant camp at Brighton Park due to contamination risks was noted.

With no alternative housing solutions in place, many migrants were left in limbo, awaiting accommodation at various city locations.

Data on Migrant Arrivals

Data from the City of Chicago Office of Emergency Management and Communications revealed that over 25,000 people have arrived in Chicago from the southern border since August 2022.

This figure includes those transported via "Texas buses," part of Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott's initiative to send migrants to sanctuary cities. An additional 4,252 individuals have reportedly arrived by plane seeking asylum since June 2023.