Chicago’s Mexican Independence Day festivities clouded by ICE, Guard concerns

Officials urging vigilance amid ICE, National Guard plans

Local Latino leaders are showing a united front amid uncertainty surrounding immigration enforcement and National Guard deployment in Chicago.

CHICAGO - Each September, Mexican Independence Day festivities draw massive crowds across the city and the suburbs. This year, however, excitement is giving way to unease—with community members on edge over a planned immigration crackdown and National Guard deployment in Chicago. 

What we know:

Mexican Independence Day is observed on September 16 to celebrate Mexico's liberation from Spain in 1810, but the festivities typically take place several days before and after the holiday. 

While the 26th Street Mexican Independence Day Parade will still step off in Little Village on Sunday, Sept. 14th at noon, other organizations have been forced to make difficult decisions.

Organizers of El Grito Fest announced Thursday they have made the "painful" decision to cancel the two-day event.

"We were really torn about our decision," said Korina Sanchez, organizer, El Grito Chicago.

Sanchez, who helped revive the family-friendly festival last year after a 10-year hiatus, says she couldn't ignore a recent phone call.

"We did get a call from the governor's office, and they strongly recommended we maybe think about whether it was the right decision to move forward with the event," Sanchez explained. 

The festival was scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 13 and Sunday, Sept. 14 in Grant Park, but organizers said they could not risk community members becoming "collateral damage."

"I think for sure what we can count on is us coming back stronger next year," Sanchez said. 

What they're saying:

On Thursday afternoon, the Latino Leadership Council gathered at Daley Plaza to present a united front ahead of the celebrations.

"We will not let them turn our fear or our anger against us," said Berto Aguayo, policy co-chair of the Latino Leadership Council. "We will remain peaceful, united and informed."

Council leaders urged residents to continue honoring their heritage and traditions, but to do so responsibly and peacefully.

"My task to each and every one of you, is to show up to the parades, as our allies, as our friends, and as our neighbors," said State Sen. Karina Villa, (D) 25th District. 

Officials criticized President Donald Trump’s plans to increase Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations and bring in the National Guard, calling the move an effort to provoke unrest.

"We will remain calm, we will protect one another, and we will bring both our Mexican and our American flags, and we will carry them with pride and peace as a reminder of our heritage," Aguayo said. 

"They are already training for riots. What riots? The riots that they want to instigate. The riots that they want to perpetuate in the city of Chicago. Do not take the bait," added former U.S. Representative Luis Gutierrez.

Meanwhile, Gov. JB Pritzker is sending a clear message — urging the public to be vigilant and informed over the coming days and weeks, in particular. 

"Know your rights and be extra careful. And know that there is the possibility of ICE being on the ground causing some mayhem," Pritzker said. "Don't play into their hand, and if you have the opportunity, please, protest. Pull out your phone, video everything that they're doing."

What's next:

Those who purchased tickets to El Grito Fest will automatically be refunded in the next seven days.