Thousands in Chicago celebrate Mexican Independence Day amid ICE crackdown
Eduardo Pecina, 57, is Mexican American and said that although he is a citizen, he and many others fear being racially targeted for being Latino. He said he usually comes with a group of around 50 people, including some who are undocumented. This year, around 10 showed up.
“Everybody’s worried about that, that they’ll come up to you and drag you out of your car,” he said. “It’s a shame that we have to fear. You come over here peacefully, enjoy our culture, enjoy our food and enjoy everything that we have to offer.”
Izaguirre wore a green Mexico jersey and waved a tall pole with a large Mexican flag above her head as she stood with several members of her family, including young children. She said it was essential to pass on the traditions of her heritage to the next generation.
Many families with children were at the parade, as the kids watched the series of vibrant floats with wide smiles, some wearing Mexican flags like superhero capes, others blowing into plastic horns. At a nearby barbershop, customers angled their chairs to watch the parade.
Attendees said they would celebrate for those who stayed home and remain proud of their heritage in the face of threats to their communities.
Lupita Romero, 42, a chef and local artist, stood by her latest creations, several 18-foot-high hand painted skeletons made of papier-mâché. The skeletons are a symbol used in Mexican Day of the Dead celebrations that honor their ancestors.
“Especially in hard times, we have to remember they will always be alive in our hearts. We are never alone,” she said.
Two of the skeletons appeared to be riding bicycles and had their faces painted, including one with bright red and blue face paint and two long black braids on the side of its head. Others were painted in the style of Mexican luchadors with masks and capes.
“It is incredibly important to be out here and show support for ourselves and for those who cannot be here,” she said.
García said holding the parade in Little Village on Sunday was “an important statement that shows that we have been here for over 100 years as a community.”
Feliberto Ramirez, 72, who was born in Chicago and is Mexican American, said he felt proud.