Politics

With Rumors Swirling Around Possible ICE Activity at Chicago Marathon, Johnson Says ‘We’re Encouraging Everyone to Get Out to Celebrate’

The sporting world’s eyes will be on Chicago Sunday during the 47th edition of the Chicago Marathon, one of the premier races on the global circuit.

But with Chicago also in the crosshairs of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement blitz, and National Guard troops now on the ground in the area, rumors are swirling around potential ICE raids on race participants and spectators.

The Chicago Park District shot down one such falsehood, which appeared to have originated on Reddit, where the original post has since been removed.

Contrary to what was shared on social media, “the Park District had not received any such information related to potential ICE activity nor had the district shared any guidance regarding potential ICE activity at the marathon with our staff,” Michele Lemons, a Park District spokesperson, told WTTW News.

Still, the fabrication has left some runners rattled, questioning whether they need to carry a passport or fearing for friends and family members who may be attending as spectators. Several called out marathon organizers on social media, asking for a public statement regarding safety and security.

The Chicago Marathon did not immediately respond to WTTW News’ request for comment. According to the race’s media guide, emergency information is communicated to runners via email and/or text message.

Marathon participants, including the top runners, come to Chicago from countries all over the globe for the event.

Regarding security in Grant Park — the location of the marathon’s start and finish lines — the Park District said that as is the case with all large permitted events, organizers coordinate with and obtain approvals from Chicago’s police and fire departments, along with the Office of Emergency Management and Communication and other city agencies.

Speaking at a separate event Tuesday morning, Mayor Brandon Johnson responded to a question about juggling an event like the marathon — and its nearly 2 million anticipated spectators — with the recent chaos caused by federal agents.

“I feel strongly about our ability to be able hold our large events and the strategic security measures that were put in place,” Johnson said.

“Roughly 3,000 runners from the Mexico have signed up for this marathon. And I want all of them come,” he said. “I believe the best way in which we can demonstrate resistance is not bending the knee to tyranny. President Trump is literally undermining the economic prowess of cities like Chicago, right? So we’re encouraging everyone to get out to celebrate.”

Heather Cherone contributed to this report.

Contact Patty Wetli: [email protected]