Chicago City Wire

Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus has called for the resignation of Floor Leader Carlos Ramirez-Rosa following an incident where he is accused of physically and verbally harassing Ald. Emma Mitts during a special meeting of the Chicago City Council last week. 

During the meeting, aldermen discussed placing a referendum on the March ballot to remove the city's "Sanctuary City" status amid an influx of illegal immigrants.

"The bullying by Floor Leader Ramirez-Rosa to Chairwoman Emma Mitts, City Council’s current longest-serving woman, was unprofessional and unbecoming of his role. Alderman Ramirez-Rosa’s actions of physical and verbal harassment have let down our council and the people of Chicago. In our roles, we must uphold the values of respect and collaboration," the Chicago Aldermanic Black Caucus said.

“It is disheartening that we find ourselves in this situation, and we hope that all City Council members focus their efforts on solving this issue and maintain mutual respect for each other.”

“Additionally, this matter is an unfortunate and direct reminder of the decades of challenges that African-American women serving in City Council have had to overcome in our combined efforts to enhance the upward mobility of our collective communities.”

“Chairwoman Mitts is a pillar of strength, courage, and inspiration to many black women who aspire to become responsible and effective government leaders. We strongly condemn this blatant mistreatment and disrespect towards Alderwoman Mitts and demand a full apology from Alderman Ramirez-Rosa.”

“Our caucus put forth the following recommendations to create a more inclusive and respectful environment for all members.”

“1. Alderman Carlos Ramirez-Rosa resign as Floor Leader and Chairman of the Committee on Zoning, Landmarks, and Building Standards

2. Alderman Ramirez-Rosa must publicly acknowledge what he did, apologize to Chairwoman Mitts, and commit to better his behavior as a member of this body

3. Alderman Ramirez-Rosa must take steps to remedy his actions with Chairwoman Mitts and other city council members.”

Following last week's contentious meeting, Ald. Ray Lopez criticized what he perceived as aggressive tactics and harassment from Ramirez-Rosa during proceedings. Lopez accused Mayor Brandon Johnson's team - with Ramirez-Rosa as Floor Leader - of bending rules and obstructing proceedings. Lopez drew attention to the connection between the city's Welcoming City Ordinance and the influx of asylum-seekers, emphasizing the need for Chicagoans to have a say in the matter.

"No man has the right to lay hands on anyone, let alone grab a woman & physically block her from exiting trying to intimidate her. Your misogyny was on full disgusting display (again). The only question is why does our mayor allow you to serve in any capacity? You refused to be called for quorum while hiding by the doors threatening your colleagues. You are clearly a threat to women, especially of color. Resign!” Lopez said of Ramirez-Rosa.

More than 17,000 illegal immigrants have arrived in Chicago since August 2022 Chicago’s Office of Emergency Management and Communications reports. The ensuing crisis has led to re-housing that population in suburban communities and efforts to repeal the “sanctuary” status for both Chicago and state of Illinois that would allow deportations for unauthorized populations.