FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 11, 2025
NEW YORK, NY – The Puerto Rican Bar Association (PRBA) strongly condemns the alarming actions taken by federal agents on July 8, 2025, at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture (NMPRAC) in Chicago’s Humboldt Park.
According to multiple reports and eyewitness accounts, approximately 15 to 20 Homeland Security vehicles arrived at the museum without prior notice, legal documentation, or identification while often wearing masks that not only hid who they are, but also placed innocent staffers at risk in being unable to distinguish if they were legitimate federal law enforcement officials or a privatized race hate militia. Reports are numerous that the armed individuals entered the premises, refused repeated requests to show badges or warrants, and proceeded to survey the property—including entrances and exits—despite being repeatedly asked for identification by museum staff.
In short, the museum, a vital cultural and historical site for Puerto Ricans in Chicago and across the country, was treated as if it were a criminal threat. Staff reported the agents claimed they were preparing for “events that may draw undocumented attendees.” Such an assertion, and the conduct it purportedly justified, is a chilling example of racialized surveillance, profiling, and intimidation.
It appears we now live in a time where federal law enforcement has decided to extend their reach to our cultural institutions, and beyond, hardworking LatinX people who — along with immigrants from Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East — built, fought for, and died defending our nation.
As such, the PRBA respectfully asks its members and all those seeing events like the one at NMPRAC unfold in real time to please pause and consider: What, and who, will be the next target? Where will it stop? And, to what end?
The PRBA stands in full solidarity with NMPRAC and the leaders, advocates, and community members who swiftly organized a public and legal response. and remains committed to defending civil rights, promoting justice, and protecting the dignity of our community and institutions. We urge all legal professionals, civic organizations, and elected officials to do the same.
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Founded in 1957, the Puerto Rican Bar Association is one of the oldest Latino bar associations in the United States. It advocates for the civil and legal rights of the Puerto Rican and Latino communities, fosters diversity in the legal profession, and works to advance justice and equity for all.