Thousands March in Little Village Mexican Independence Day Parade, Defying ICE Crackdown in Chicago

Thousands Gather in Little Village for Mexican Independence Day Parade, Defying ICE Presence

Despite fears of ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) activity, thousands of revelers attended the annual Mexican Independence Day parade in Little Village on Sunday. The parade on 26th Street, the city’s largest, proceeded without incident, with participants expressing pride in their heritage and solidarity against immigration enforcement efforts.

Community Resilience in the Face of Fear

Attendees emphasized the importance of celebrating their culture in the face of uncertainty. Many expressed concerns about potential ICE raids, especially after the cancellation of El Grito Fest in Grant Park. The parade was seen by some as an act of resistance, demonstrating the community's commitment to maintaining its traditions and identity. Jennifer Aguilar, executive director of the Little Village Chamber of Commerce, previously said they vowed to carry on their tradition as “almost like an act of resistance.”

Damaris, who attended both Saturday and Sunday’s celebrations, noted that people felt safer attending during the day, surrounded by the community. "I think people just feel more comfortable going out during the day when they’re surrounded by people in the community," she said.

A Vibrant Display of Culture and Solidarity

The parade, which kicked off at noon at the Little Village Arch (3123 W. 26th St.) and concluded around 2:00 p.m. at Kostner Avenue, featured floats, live music, local advocacy groups, and Vaqueros on horseback. Parade-goers chanted "Viva Mexico!" and held anti-ICE signs. Rep. Chuy Garcia, representing much of Chicago’s Hispanic community, led the parade with other Latino elected officials, condemning President Trump's immigration policies.

"Celebrating today is an important statement that shows that we have been here for over a hundred years as a community," Garcia said. "We have friends and allies and people who love us across this city. … We will continue to live a normal existence and to be who we are and to continue to love and share everything that we are as a people with the rest of our city."

Safety Measures and Support Networks

Similar to the Pilsen parade the previous weekend, marshals trained in rapid response techniques were present along the 26th Street parade route. Representatives from the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights were also present, offering resources and reporting ICE sightings. The organization's Executive Director, Lawrence Benito, emphasized Chicago's history of welcoming immigrants.

Labor Representation and Generational Pride

Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 134 Chapter marched in the parade representing the Organized Hispanics Making Strides group. Frank Rodriguez, a third-generation IPEW electrician, stated that it was the union's first year participating in the parade, highlighting the contributions of Latino-Americans to the labor force.

“I’m a third generation IPEW electrician,” Rodriguez said. “My grandfather, my father, all his uncles, all his cousins, all my uncles, they’re all electricians. Mexicans in my family have been celebrating this parade for a long, long time – but we haven’t been in it. So, seeing seeing the turnout and seeing this involvement from all the members is fantastic.”

Downtown Street Closures and ICE Concerns

Concerns over immigration enforcement operations, particularly Operation Midway Blitz, led to increased anxiety during the Mexican Independence Day weekend. While the Little Village parade proceeded smoothly, city officials warned of potential street closures downtown due to unsanctioned car caravans. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) indicated closures might be necessary in "extreme circumstances." Ald. Brendan Reilly stated that Chicago police would implement rolling closures if caravans blocked traffic in the Central Business District. Ald. Brian Hopkins highlighted the uncertainty and fear surrounding ICE enforcement, stating residents feared deportation for attending festivities.

Celebrating Heritage and Remembrance

Despite the anxieties, families celebrated their heritage, with children wearing Mexican flags and attending alongside older relatives. Local artist Lupita Romero displayed her papier-mâché skeletons, symbolizing the Day of the Dead and honoring ancestors. She emphasized the importance of showing support and remembering loved ones, especially during difficult times.

“Especially in hard times, we have to remember they will always be alive in our hearts. We are never alone,” she said.

Eduardo Pecina, a Mexican American citizen, expressed his fear of racial profiling due to the current climate. He noted that fewer of his friends attended the celebration this year due to these concerns.