Chicago gathered Monday to honor one of its bravest, Police Officer Enrique Martinez, who gave his life in the line of duty protecting a city that desperately needs more heroes like him. But glaringly absent from the ceremony was Mayor Brandon Johnson, who decided to “honor the family’s wishes” and sit this one out after initially announcing his attendance.
Officer Martinez, only 26 years old, was shot and killed on November 4 while responding to a call about a vehicle blocking traffic in East Chatham. He and his partner approached the vehicle and noticed one of its occupants, Darion C. McMillian, reaching for a bag. Despite warnings, McMillian pulled a gun and fired, killing Martinez—a man who chose to confront danger head-on so others wouldn’t have to.
Martinez’s family, understandably grieving, requested that both Mayor Johnson and Governor J.B. Pritzker not attend the funeral. Given Johnson’s track record of cozying up to anti-police rhetoric and policies, the family’s decision hardly comes as a surprise. After all, it’s hard to stomach politicians who send “thoughts and prayers” to grieving families while undermining the very officers who risk their lives daily.
Johnson initially announced he would attend, releasing a tone-deaf statement about how he planned to honor Martinez’s “ultimate sacrifice.” Yet when the family made their wishes clear, the mayor quickly backpedaled. Instead of taking this as a moment to reflect on why so many Chicagoans—including grieving families—don’t trust him, Johnson spun it into another carefully worded PR statement about “honoring the space to grieve.”
Governor Pritzker, ever the opportunist, followed suit, quietly bowing out. It’s almost as if these politicians know their hollow policies are part of the problem, but instead of confronting the rampant violence and anti-police sentiment they’ve enabled, they prefer to avoid any situation that might force them to face accountability.
Officer Martinez’s sacrifice is a stark reminder of the bravery it takes to wear the badge in a city plagued by violence. His courage stands in sharp contrast to the political cowardice displayed by leaders who’d rather virtue signal than fix the messes they helped create. Martinez didn’t run from danger; he confronted it to protect his community. Chicago could use more men like Martinez and fewer politicians more concerned with optics than results.
Let’s not forget who Officer Martinez was—a hero in every sense of the word. His family, his fellow officers, and the city he served deserve better than the political theater that so often overshadows real sacrifice. His brother said it best: “Because of my brother’s strength and courage, we are all able to see another day, embrace a loved one, and live without fear.” Chicago owes it to him—and to every officer—to demand real leadership and real solutions.
