The lives of migrants in the United States changed drastically after the increase in raids by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). In cities like Chicago, many undocumented immigrants avoid leaving their homes for fear of being detained in immigration raids. In response to this situation, neighborhood support networks have emerged to help those who remain sheltered. One of the most striking initiatives involves walking the pets of immigrant families who fear being arrested if they go out. Behind this act of solidarity is Candice Nelson, a resident of Chicago's Near West Side. Nelson began walking dogs three years ago after losing his job, aiming to generate extra income. On her recent walks, she noticed a drastic change in her community's routine: the streets were empty, and many people were trying to blend in. A support network born from empathy and shared fear. "People are wearing masks and hats to disguise themselves and go unnoticed. It's really sad to see that," Nelson told CNN. Her observation motivated her to offer help to those who don't feel safe leaving their homes for fear of immigration raids. On October 12, 2025, Nelson posted a video on TikTok offering to walk the dogs of people who don't feel comfortable on the streets for free. To contact her, those interested only need to message her on Instagram or TikTok. In her words, it's her way of contributing to the community. "I do this every day: I take care of dogs, I walk them, I'm with them. It's the least I can do. I feel this is a way to help, because I feel very powerless and marginalized," Nelson expressed in his post. The video quickly went viral, accumulating more than 26,000 views and more than 250 comments. Numerous users praised her initiative and thanked her for her act of solidarity toward migrants living in fear.

The Positive Impact and Expansion of the Project

Among the comments were messages like: “This is very kind of you,” “You are amazing,” and “This is the America I want to live in.” Some users even offered to replicate his work in other Chicago neighborhoods, forming a spontaneous network of volunteers.

A day later,Nelson posted another video to thank everyone for their support and announced that several people had joined his cause. According to CNN, he currently has 11 volunteers who are part of the group, which they provisionally named Chicago Dog Walkers.

In a subsequent interview, Nelson explained that the idea wasn't originally his. He was inspired by a post from the dog training group Zero to Hero K9, in the Pilsen neighborhood, which offered free walks to help migrant families worried about going out.

The ad, written in English and Spanish, promised to visit three homes a day and not turn away any pet, even the most difficult to handle. Through the example of Nelson and his team, Chicago demonstrates that solidarity can emerge even amidst fear and uncertainty.

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