On September 12, 2025, Silverio Villegas‑González — a devoted father, a hard worker, a neighbor — was murdered during a confrontation with ICE agents. His death left a wound in our community and raised painful questions about accountability, memory, and the safety and dignity of all who live here.

Silverio had two young children that attended the schools next to where he was killed. They were our neighbors. The overwhelming demand from the community since this happened is to make Franklin Park a sanctuary city. Sign this petition to let Franklin Park Mayor Barrett Pedersen know that we need a Sanctuary City ordinance, or he will not be in office come 2029. We need to let them know just how many people refuse to let ICE detainments and murders in our neighborhood go unquestioned. 

A makeshift vigil was erected at the site of Silverio’s confrontation with ICE agents. Since then, it has been vandalized with rocks that have hateful messages scribbled onto them, individuals threatening frightened community members, and then returning after hours to tear down the signs and art the community installs.

The People’s landmark that now exists on Grand and Emerson is a way to recognize the contributions not only Silverio but all immigrants make to our communities, and the hole that is left when they are brutally taken away from us. Not only will your signature send a message to Franklin Park city officials, but it will support an ongoing effort in Franklin Park and the surrounding communities to make a better future for us all, no matter where you are from.