In Chicago, community volunteer Sonia Sarmiento has taken a stand outside Senn High School to document potential abuses by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents amid heightened enforcement actions, particularly during Operation Midway Blitz. This operation has reportedly involved violent tactics, including the use of tear gas and pepper balls against bystanders. The Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) has noted that these actions have led to public intimidation, prompting thousands of residents to form Rapid Response teams. These teams are trained to alert the community about ICE activities, assist in escorting children to school, and document operations. Local businesses have also shown solidarity by displaying signs refusing service to ICE agents.

In response to specific incidents, such as the arrest of preschool teacher Diana Santillana Galeano, community rallies have emerged, along with financial support for affected families. Legal actions, including a class action lawsuit by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Illinois, have been initiated to address conditions faced by detainees at the Broadview detention center. Recent judicial rulings have resulted in the release of detainees and imposed restrictions on ICE's use of force, underscoring the impact of community resistance in Chicago.

Meanwhile, in Charlotte, North Carolina, federal officials have confirmed the initiation of immigration enforcement operations, with agents observed making arrests across the city. Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stated that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is increasing law enforcement presence to address public safety concerns. However, local officials, including Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles, have criticized these actions for fostering fear and uncertainty within the community. Lyles, along with other local leaders, has expressed support for all residents wishing to live without fear.

Charlotte, which has a population exceeding 900,000 and includes over 150,000 foreign-born residents, has seen a noticeable increase in the presence of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and ICE agents conducting traffic stops. Local organizations are responding by organizing training sessions to inform immigrants of their rights and are considering peaceful protests. North Carolina Governor Josh Stein has noted that many individuals detained during these operations lack criminal records, and some may even be American citizens. He has encouraged the public to document any inappropriate conduct by federal agents and report it to local law enforcement. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department has clarified that it is not participating in federal immigration enforcement activities.