Threats by Trump cast a shadow on Chicago's Mexican Independence Day festivities
In the heart of Chicago, a city known for its vibrant cultural diversity, the air is filled with an unusual sense of anxiety and uncertainty. The upcoming Mexican Independence Day celebrations, a tradition that spans more than a week and attracts hundreds of thousands of participants, are facing potential disruptions due to political tensions.
Residents like Galiela Mendez find the decision to postpone El Grito Chicago heartbreaking yet understandable. "It's a time for us to celebrate our culture, our heritage," she says, "but the current climate makes it difficult."
Mexicans make up more than one-fifth of Chicago's total population and about 74% of its Latino residents. For them, the Independence Day has always been a significant celebration, but this year, it feels different. Alejandro Vences, who became a U.S. citizen this year, expresses the palpable anxiety despite gaining some comfort from his citizenship.
The potential federal intervention, including the deployment of National Guard troops and increased immigration enforcement, has raised concerns among local residents and business owners. Fabio Fernandez, owner of 3W We Will Win, finds the prospect troubling and disheartening. He, like many others, has observed lower sales and reduced foot traffic for local businesses due to the anxiety.
Rigoberto González, an organizer with the United Merchants of Pilsen Chamber of Commerce, found local businesses eager to participate in the parade despite the climate change. However, the regular community parades and festivals have been divided over whether to move forward with precautions or to postpone.
The public figure who opposed President Donald Trump's announcement to send the National Guard and immigration authorities to Chicago was Illinois' Democratic Governor J.B. Pritzker. He strongly resisted the move, accusing the Trump administration of aiming to unsettle Illinois residents rather than genuinely addressing crime prevention.
The downtown Mexican Independence Day festival set for next weekend was postponed this week by organizers, a decision that sparked protests. At least a thousand people marched through downtown Chicago in protest of increased ICE activity and federal agents in the city. Protesters like Jennifer Lezama believe that hardworking individuals who pay taxes shouldn't have to fear deportation because they don't have a Social Security number.
In a show of solidarity, Mary Zangs, another protester, finds it pathetic that National Guard troops are being sent to the city during the summer. She, along with Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, plans to sue the Trump administration over these threats.
Supporting local Latino-owned businesses is among the best ways to show support during this time, according to Fabio Fernandez. Despite the challenges, the spirit of unity and resilience remains strong in Chicago's Latino community. As Alejandro Vences states, "We'll find a way to celebrate our culture, our independence, because it's important."
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