The Law Office of the Cook County Public Defender urges the Chicago City Council to reject the proposed “snap” curfew ordinance. This proposal is a throwback to past failures, allowing law enforcement to issue curfews on brief notice, with little or no opportunity for young people and their caregivers to respond appropriately. Its passage would set the stage for arbitrary sweeps and increase unnecessary and dangerous police interactions with youth.
The proposal revives outdated and ineffective strategies that have historically failed to improve the safety of young people or address public concerns. Research consistently shows that curfews are ineffective in reducing crime rates or protecting young people. This proposal represents a strategy of collective punishment against young people, without regard for intent or circumstance, and will be used to target Black youth specifically.
We are particularly concerned that the proposed ordinance does not require meaningful public notification or accommodations for youth and families with limited English proficiency.
The City should continue to invest in proven strategies that truly engage and support youth, rather than reverting to policies that are overly punitive, reactionary, and ultimately ineffective.
We, along with our partners, strongly oppose this ordinance and urge City Council members to prioritize the real needs of Chicago’s youth by rejecting the proposed curfew measures.