Chicago Mayor Johnson Addresses Violence Against Immigrants
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the need to end “violence against immigrants” following the burial of Sheridan Gorman on Saturday. Gorman, an 18-year-old Loyola University student, was allegedly killed by 25-year-old Jose Medina-Medina, who is reported to be an undocumented immigrant from Venezuela. Medina-Medina reportedly entered the U.S. in 2023 and was previously detained by Border Patrol before being released.
Johnson shared his thoughts during the “No Kings” protests in Chicago, stating, “We need to end violence against immigrants. We have to be proactive. First of all, we need to ensure participation in the democratic process. Changes are happening electorally. We have acted to reduce ICE’s presence in Chicago.”
In a press conference on Tuesday, Johnson was questioned about whether he would apologize to Gorman’s family regarding immigration policies linked to the incident. The reporter asked, “Could you please take this opportunity to apologize to Mr. Sheridan’s parents for the policies you promoted that led to his death?” Johnson responded, expressing his sorrow over Gorman’s loss. He also mentioned that the SAFE-T method and the Welcoming City Ordinance were established long before his time, citing historical context.
“There are no words that can adequately comfort the family who lost their baby,” he lamented. It was revealed that Gorman’s family held a memorial service after laying her to rest in Yorktown Heights, New York, where they vowed to seek justice.
Jessica Gorman, Sheridan’s mother, expressed her anger and heartbreak, declaring at the memorial, “We’re going to fight for justice and change for sweet Sheridan.” Family members highlighted the urgent need for safety and protection for all children, stating, “This is what matters: to protect and love our children.”
The family’s attorney pointed out that young people should feel secure in their communities. Criticism was also directed at Johnson’s comments about Gorman’s death, arguing that it cannot simply be categorized as a “senseless tragedy.”
In a related note, Medina-Medina is facing severe charges and remains in custody following a judge’s decision. He reportedly hid before the shooting incident, during which Gorman was tragically shot in the back while trying to escape with friends.
Johnson’s office has not yet commented further on the situation.
