A Voice from Little Village Chicago: A Conversation with Baltazar, President of the Little Village Community Council

At the heart of the 100 Letters Project is a commitment to authentic storytelling. We believe that the experiences of immigrants and their children cannot be understood in isolation. To better understand the challenges these young people face, we spoke with Baltazar, President of the Little Village Community Council, an organization that has served as a leading voice for Chicago’s Little Village community for more than 50 years.

The Reality of ICE Enforcement

Baltazar shared firsthand accounts of how ICE raids affect families in Little Village. Beyond their immediate impact, these actions create fear and uncertainty throughout the community, especially for children who often live with the constant worry that a parent, relative, or loved one could be taken away.

Systemic Inequities Beyond Immigration

Our discussion highlighted broader challenges facing the community, including limited access to mental health resources and persistent educational inequities. These systemic barriers make it more difficult for young people and families to access the support and opportunities they need.

The Ongoing Fight Against Displacement

Little Village continues to face pressures from gentrification and outside investment. Baltazar described concerns about long-term residents being pushed out of their neighborhoods, threatening the stability and cultural identity of the community.

Community Resilience and Advocacy

Despite these challenges, Little Village has a long history of organizing and advocacy. Through community action, legal advocacy, and collective organizing, residents and local organizations have worked to protect families, defend community interests, and hold institutions accountable.

Why This Matters to the 100 Letters Project

Baltazar’s perspective reinforces what many of the letters in our project reveal: immigration policy is not just a political issue—it is a lived reality that shapes the daily experiences of young people.

As Baltazar told us:

“If you collect 100 letters, that’s 100 testimonies that nobody else is documenting.”

These letters are more than personal stories. They are records of lived experiences, reflections of community challenges, and calls for policymakers to listen directly to the voices of those most affected.

We are honored to partner with the Little Village Community Council as we work to amplify youth voices and transform individual stories into collective advocacy for change.