CHICAGO (AP) — President Donald Trump's plan to send National Guard troops and immigration agents into Chicago has created anxiety among Latino residents, leading some to carry their U.S. passports and prompting caution before openly celebrating the upcoming Mexican Independence Day. The holiday, which falls on September 16, is typically a time of joy in Chicago, characterized by parades and large community gatherings, particularly in neighborhoods like Pilsen, which has a strong Mexican heritage.
Festivities are set to begin with a parade in the Pilsen neighborhood, followed by car caravans and street parties that draw hundreds of thousands of participants. However, Trump's administration has threatened to expand federal immigration enforcement in Chicago, similar to actions taken in other Democratic-led cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. Local opposition to this plan has surged, with city and state leaders announcing intentions to legally challenge the federal government's measures.
The overall atmosphere as Mexican Independence Day approaches reflects the significance of the Mexican American community in Chicago, where Mexicans represent over one-fifth of the population and approximately 74% of the city's Latino residents, according to 2022 U.S. Census estimates. Organizers of community parades and events are divided on whether to proceed with celebrations or postpone them in favor of a safer environment for participants. In Pilsen, many agree that community safety must come first. Some events, such as a downtown festival, have already been postponed to ensure safety for attendees.
Community members, understandably disappointed by the potential federal intervention, have expressed their frustration, particularly during a time meant for unity and celebration of Mexican culture. Galiela Mendez, a local resident, expressed her heartbreak over the postponement of El Grito Chicago and pointed out that Trump's rhetoric unfairly maligns the city while disrupting the festivities for its residents. Similarly, Vianney Alarcon fears that immigration officials may target individuals without regard for their legal status while they participate in celebrations.
In defiance of the perceived threats, some residents, like Alarcon, plan to celebrate while carrying their passports as a precaution. She stated, “I’m still going to celebrate my heritage,” asserting that many others feel similarly motivated to join the festivities. The sentiment of anxiety however, continues to cast a shadow over the celebrations. Those engaged in business, such as Fabio Fernandez, have noted the emotional toll these political threats have caused, adversely affecting local commerce. He observed that both foot traffic and sales have dropped, indicating a struggling environment for small businesses in the region.
Alejandro Vences, a newly minted U.S. citizen, described how despite the comfort his citizenship brings him, the pervasive anxiety is felt throughout the community. He emphasized that Independence Day is traditionally a celebration of culture, but this year feels different due to the heightened apprehension surrounding potential federal actions. This overall sense of unease permeates the community as they strive to maintain their traditions and celebrate their heritage in the face of adversity.
As the days draw closer to the Mexican Independence Day celebrations, the clash between a community eager to honor its cultural identity and the looming threat of federal intervention continues to create a complex and emotionally charged atmosphere in Chicago's Latino neighborhoods.
