Plastic whistles have emerged as a grassroots tool of resistance against federal immigration enforcement in Chicago. Residents use the shrill sound of whistles to warn undocumented people of approaching agents and to summon others to witness and document arrests, provide legal information, and discourage officers from lingering. The whistles, distributed by community groups and activists, have become a symbol of solidarity and defiance in neighborhoods targeted by aggressive immigration raids.

Despite the overwhelming force of federal agents, including the use of military tactics and weapons, the whistle campaign has grown rapidly, fueled by its simplicity and accessibility. Community members, motivated by personal histories and a desire to protect their neighbors, continue to patrol their streets, using whistles and other noisemakers to rally support and challenge the presence of immigration officers. While the impact is limited against heavily armed squads, the movement has fostered unity and raised awareness of the ongoing enforcement actions.