A Chicago Priest Walks 800 Miles to Defend Immigrant Families and Challenge Trump’s “Un-American” Policies

In a remarkable act of faith and courage, a Chicago priest has set out on an 800-mile journey to bring national attention to the suffering of undocumented families in America and to remind the nation of its moral compass.

Father Gary Graf, a 67-year-old pastor from Our Lady of the Heights Church in Chicago Heights, began his trek in Dolton, Illinois the same town where Pope Leo XIV spent his early years. His destination: Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, symbols of hope for generations of immigrants.

Father Graf’s message is simple yet powerful: America must return to compassion, dignity, and humanity when dealing with immigrants and their families.

“What is happening to immigrant families in the United States, and especially to children, is an assault on the values shared by all people of faith,” Father Graf said before setting off. “Children taken from parents, families torn apart again and again this cannot be who we are. There must be a better way.”

He called policies that separate families “immoral and un-American” and refuses to use the phrase “illegal immigrant”, saying it dehumanizes people who are seeking safety and opportunity.

Before beginning his journey, Graf received blessings from supporters gathered outside Pope Leo’s childhood home. His plan is to walk 800 miles in 50 days a spiritual pilgrimage that he hopes will inspire Americans “from every state to demand compassion and justice for all migrants.”

Father Graf has long been an advocate for immigrant rights. Years ago, he symbolically crossed the border from Nogales, Mexico, into Arizona without authorization to draw attention to the struggles faced by migrants.

“An illegal act does not make someone illegal,” he explained. “If that were true, then every one of us who has ever broken a law would deserve to be sent away. That’s not what justice or faith teaches.”

His mission comes at a time when immigration policies under the Trump administration have drawn global criticism, with ICE crackdowns and National Guard deployments sparking fear in immigrant communities especially in cities like Chicago.

“This country, from Pope Leo’s childhood home to Ellis Island, was built by immigrants,” said Graf. “They deserve not violence or fear, but compassion, dignity, and respect. We speak this truth because it must be heard.”

Father Graf is part of Priests for Justice for Immigrants, a group dedicated to advocating for humane immigration reform through peaceful action and faith-driven service.

As his journey continues, his message echoes far beyond Chicago:

“All immigrants are not strangers. They are our brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters. America must welcome people of goodwill and give them a way forward.”

Many are calling Father Gary Graf’s mission a living example of what true Christianity looks like in action.