Mexican Independence Day Parades Proceed in Chicago, East LA Amid ICE Enforcement

Mexican Independence Day parades across multiple U.S. cities, including Chicago's Little Village, East Los Angeles, and Joliet, proceeded with strong community participation despite heightened fears and ongoing federal immigration enforcement efforts under Operation Midway Blitz. In Chicago, thousands attended the Little Village parade with slightly smaller crowds than usual due to concerns about Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids, though no arrests were reported during the event. East Los Angeles held its 79th annual parade amid similar fears following a Supreme Court decision allowing federal agents to expand immigration patrols, prompting some families to stay home but also inspiring a defiant spirit among attendees. Local officials and law enforcement participated in the East L.A. parade, aiming to provide security and reassurance to attendees. The Joliet parade also drew a large crowd, demonstrating community pride and resilience despite ICE presence, although some relatives of attendees opted to stay away out of fear. Across all locations, the celebrations served as acts of cultural pride and resistance, emphasizing unity and awareness of immigrant rights.