The future of Chicago’s designation as a sanctuary city hangs in the balance as residents grow increasingly frustrated over the nearly 12,000 migrants crowding the city’s shelters and thousands more who are unsheltered. 

Several of the city’s council members are pushing for a ballot initiative to allow voters to decide in the March election if Chicago should remain a sanctuary city. Thursday’s council meeting sparked heated debate about the federal government’s role in addressing the crisis and escalating racial tensions at the Windy City.