Chicago, US:
In his first televised interview since being struck by pepper balls fired by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers, a Chicago-area pastor broke his silence, recounting the harrowing incident that left his community stunned and questioning the tactics used by federal agents.
Pastor James Alvarez, 48, says the confrontation happened during what he described as a peaceful church-led outreach event outside a local immigrant advocacy centre last month. According to Alvarez, ICE agents arrived abruptly and began dispersing the crowd with non-lethal rounds, including pepper balls—one of which hit him directly in the chest.
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“It Was Chaos and Confusion”
Speaking from his home in Chicago’s South Side, Alvarez relived the moment on live television, his voice shaking. “We were there to support families who felt threatened by deportation raids. There was no violence, no hostility—just prayer and songs,” he explained. “Suddenly, agents shouted commands, and I felt this sharp thud and burning sensation. It was chaos and confusion everywhere.”
Alvarez said that the incident left him hospitalised for two days due to respiratory irritation from the pepper powder and minor bruising from the impact. While his physical injuries have healed, the emotional trauma, he admitted, is “still raw.”
ICE’s Response
ICE officials have since confirmed that their officers deployed “chemical irritants” during what they deemed a crowd-control operation, claiming the gathering had escalated and posed “potential risks.” However, Alvarez challenges that account, insisting there was no provocation.
“This was our right to peaceful assembly,” Alvarez stated. “We weren’t breaking any laws, yet we were treated like threats.”
A Community Rallies
The shooting sparked weekend vigils and public demonstrations across Chicago, with community leaders and immigrant rights groups demanding accountability and transparency. Several local pastors joined calls for an investigation, arguing that faith leaders and peaceful protesters must be protected from aggressive federal actions.
Margaret Ruiz, director of the South Side Immigrant Support Network, said Alvarez’s experience underscores a troubling pattern. “We’ve documented multiple incidents where ICE deployed force during non-violent gatherings,” she said. “This case is different because it happened to a pastor in front of his congregation.”
Calls for Policy Change
In the interview, Alvarez urged reform not just for himself but for the broader immigrant community. “We can’t normalize this type of response to peaceful advocacy,” he said. “Policies must ensure that federal enforcement respects First Amendment rights and human dignity.”
Lawmakers in Illinois have already taken note. Several have hinted at drafting state-level protections discouraging the use of chemical crowd-control measures at religious or community events.
Looking Ahead
Despite the incident, Alvarez vows to continue his mission. “I am not stepping back,” he told the interviewer. “My faith teaches perseverance in the face of injustice. If anything, this has deepened our resolve to stand alongside vulnerable communities.”
His supporters say the attack has only united them further. Plans are underway for a citywide peace march next month, with Alvarez expected to lead.
FAQs
What are pepper balls?
Pepper balls are non-lethal projectiles filled with powdered capsaicin, used by law enforcement for crowd control. They cause temporary pain and respiratory irritation.
Where did the incident occur?
It happened outside an immigrant advocacy centre in Chicago during a church-led outreach event.
Did ICE admit to using pepper balls?
Yes, ICE confirmed their officers used chemical irritants but claimed it was necessary for crowd control.
Was the pastor seriously injured?
He sustained bruising and respiratory irritation requiring short-term hospitalisation but has since physically recovered.
What’s next for Pastor Alvarez?
He plans to continue his advocacy work and lead a citywide peace march in the coming weeks.
