(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — When asylum seekers cross the border from Mexico into San Antonio, they arrive in a city that can provide some care and send them on their way — thanks, in part, to money provided by the Department of Homeland Security, said Chicago Ald. William Hall (6th).
Hall, who represents the city's South Side, is part of the Chicago delegation that’s been meeting with local officials in Texas, and he said the path for Chicago is clear.
“What we need to do is … what San Antonio’s doing: Put pressure on the federal government,” he said.
Hall said the delegation, which comprises Chicago and Illinois officials, met with San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, who stressed that they are not sending asylum seekers to Chicago.
Migrants are choosing to come to Chicago because of social media and urging from the Texas governor, Hall said. Chicago wants messaging that lets them know about the true situation here.
“San Antonio wants to be a partner in conveying the truth, and San Antonio wants to be a partner in making sure that the wraparound services that are funded by Homeland Security include basic necessities, such as a coat and other things,” he said.
That federal assistance has allowed Catholic charities and City workers to help migrants along the way, Hall said.
Officials in San Antonio said Chicago deserves the same kinds of assistance. Hall added that there can also be more coordination.
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