Father Michael Pfleger, a priest in Chicago, responded sharply to President Donald Trump’s comments following a violent Juneteenth weekend in the city. At least six people were killed and over 30 others injured in various shootings. Community leaders in Chicago are urging the establishment of a city agency dedicated to gun violence prevention.
Between Friday at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 11:59 p.m., Chicago witnessed 24 shootings, leading to 39 victims, with six fatalities, according to the Chicago Police Department. In a Truth Social post on Sunday, Trump commented on the city’s crime situation, suggesting that federal forces should be deployed.
“Lots of Killing going on in Chicago. 22 people shot, at least 4 Dead,” Trump wrote. “Why isn’t Governor Pritzker calling me for help? I could make Chicago a safe City in ONE MONTH, in ONE YEAR, it would be one of the safest! D.C. went from one of the worst to one of the safest cities in the U.S.,”
Pfleger, a well-known priest at St. Sabina Catholic Church, criticized Trump for his remarks on the violence. He expressed skepticism about the president’s claims of swiftly ending gun violence. Pfleger suggested that instead of deploying troops, the administration should restore funding for gun violence prevention in Chicago.
On the same day, faith leaders, city officials, and community groups gathered at City Hall to support a proposal for the creation of a Department of Gun Violence Prevention. This department would focus solely on reducing gun violence through coordinated prevention programs across the city. FOX 32 provided coverage of the event.
Despite Trump’s suggestions, state and city authorities oppose federal intervention. They prefer to invest in local crime prevention initiatives. A White House spokesperson, Abigail Jackson, defended the president’s actions in other cities and claimed that similar measures could benefit Chicago.
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson responded by encouraging Trump to invest in Black communities instead of cutting funds for crucial services like education, housing, and health care. Johnson pointed out that the administration has reduced funding in areas that could enhance community safety. The mayor highlighted ongoing local efforts, such as increasing employment opportunities for young people, enhancing mental health services, and creating affordable housing.
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