Loyola University Officials Dispel ICE Visit Rumors, Urge Caution on Misinformation
False Alarm of ICE Visit at Loyola University
Chicago experiences yet another false alarm of an ICE visit, this time at Loyola University.
CHICAGO – With communities across the nation on high alert as the federal government cracks down on illegal immigration, officials are urging caution when reposting and repeating unverified information.
“It’s so important that the information you’re sharing is verified, that you check the date, you check the source,” said Nubia Willman, Chief Programs Officer with Latinos Progresando. “We want our communities to feel empowered, and that means that we have a responsibility of sharing accurate information.”
What We Know:
Rogers Park residents, on Friday, experienced a false alarm due to misinformation circulating online.
As the weekend was getting started, rumors began spreading at Loyola University Chicago claiming that Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents were on campus.
Posts that did not cite any sources ended up online, shared among the school community and beyond.
Officials, however, were quick to discredit the rumors.
What They’re Saying:
In an email sent to residents and staff members, Loyola University Chicago Director of Residence Life Dr. Des’mon Taylor issued the following statement, in part:
“We hope this email finds you well. We wanted to inform you that a representative from the Census Bureau recently visited the Bellarmine Hall front desk on January 30, 2025, attempting to interview students. The Census Bureau visitors appear to have been misidentified by some onlookers as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Please note that we have no reports of ICE or related activity on campus.”
Urging Caution:
“I think it’s really important to be cautious, to know your source, and to not repeat something if you don’t,” said Ed Yohnka, director of communications & public policy, ACLU of Illinois.
Yohnka urges the public to look to reputable sources when you aren’t sure if the information you’re hearing and seeing is accurate.
“Who are we getting this information from? Are they actually looking out for our community’s best interest,” Yohnka said.
Conclusion:
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information before sharing it online. As communities continue to be on high alert, it is crucial to prioritize accuracy and responsibility in sharing information.
FAQs:
Q: What happened at Loyola University?
A: Rumors spread that ICE agents were on campus, but officials later confirmed that it was a representative from the Census Bureau who visited the Bellarmine Hall front desk.
Q: Why is it important to verify information before sharing it?
A: Verifying information helps prevent the spread of misinformation and reduces unnecessary fear and anxiety in communities.
Q: What can I do to stay informed about ICE visits?
A: Look to reputable sources, such as official government websites, news organizations, and community organizations, for accurate and up-to-date information.
