Ringer, a German shepherd fursuit at MFF 2024. Apparel like this would not be allowed at MFF 2025, says the convention. (Photo by Coastal Kangaroo, via Furtrack.)

Midwest FurFest 2025 kicks off this week, and many furs are understandably concerned about the presence of federal immigration agents so close to the convention. The notorious Broadview Detention Center is just over seven and a half miles from the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, that MFF has called home since 2019.

MFF has been in the town of Rosemont, IL, for a decade and a half, which is a straight shot north from Broadview, IL. Anti-immigrant operations in the Chicago metro area are still ongoing, and the Chicago Tribune has written a great summary on what's been happening these last few months regarding actions taken.

MFF's PR director Kuna declined to share if the convention has a plan to respond to the possible presence of federal immigration officers in the area. The likelihood of that happening is low, though.