Social justice activism has overtaken journalism at the Sun-Times
It was nearly two weeks ago when Contrarian published an essay explaining how Chicago media plays a role in shaping the views the public holds of the Chicago Police Department (CPD). A must read, in Paul Vallas' piece, the former mayoral candidate and CPS CEO detailed how journalists present a profoundly negative view of CPD. Vallas' perspective appeared on September 15th, days after the fatal shooting of an illegal immigrant in Franklin Park. Though an investigation into the incident is certain to take place, the episode touched off a startling reaction from media, the creation of a mapping tool to track ICE agents.
This "tool" represents a troubling moment for American journalism. I recently reached out to Kimberly Kelly, Editor-in-Chief of the Chicago Sun-Times and WBEZ radio, to express my deep concern. As many know, these two outlets are connected, which makes this issue all the more significant.
I was alarmed to learn that the Chicago Sun-Times had encouraged citizens to use a portal to upload photos of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations — photos that the paper’s journalists may use in their reporting, and which could lead reporters to respond directly to those scenes for further investigation. Even more concerning, the Sun-Times developed the mapping tool that allows the public to track ICE agents throughout Chicago and its suburbs.
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While public engagement is essential, this kind of tool risks escalating tensions and endangering ICE officers who serve as federal law enforcement with full policing authority. The Department of Homeland Security reports a disturbing rise — over 500 percent — in assaults against ICE agents nationwide. Recently, one agent suffered serious injuries in Franklin Park, Illinois, after being struck by a fleeing vehicle driven by an illegal immigrant. Similar attacks have occurred in San Francisco, Texas, and other parts of the country.
The rhetoric and tools promoted by the Sun-Times contribute to a hostile environment that can lead to real violence. There is a troubling connection between this kind of public exposure and the increasing risks faced by law enforcement officers every day. Just last week, a nationally broadcast award show featured criticism of ICE, further fueling an atmosphere of hostility.
It’s critical to remember that ICE operations in Illinois generally do not involve local police unless agents face direct attacks. Local officers, who may be your neighbors or community members, often step in to assist federal agents — and they too face danger. The violent attack on an ICE facility in Dallas, Texas, where the assailant traveled from Oklahoma, underscores the gravity of the current threats.
Tensions across the country are high. Although anti-police sentiment waned briefly after George Floyd’s death, recent media and celebrity rhetoric are reigniting hostility toward law enforcement. This endangers both federal officers and the local police who work alongside them.
Kimberly Kelly: I urge you to remove the mapping tool and reconsider the implications of encouraging such public tracking. Responsible journalism must balance transparency with public safety. This mapping "tool" does not acheive a balance.
Tom Weitzel retired in May 2021 after 37 years in law enforcement, including 13 years as Chief of Police. Opinions expressed here are his own. Follow on X @chiefweitzel.
