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2mo ago

Chicago Cinco de Mayo Parade Canceled Over Immigration Enforcement Fears

Organizers cite heightened concerns of ICE raids and deportations, reflecting growing anxiety within the local Mexican community.

Roberto Cervantes (left) and Oscar Valdez draped themselves with Mexican flags at the Cinco de Mayo festival and parade on International Boulevard in Oakland, Calif. on Saturday, May 5, 2007.
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Overview

  • The 2025 Cinco de Mayo parade in Chicago has been canceled due to fears of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) actions targeting attendees.
  • Event organizers, led by Hector Escobar, attribute the decision to the lingering effects of Trump-era immigration policies, which have created widespread fear in the community.
  • Concerns over community safety led to the withdrawal of nearly half of the parade's sponsors, further impacting the event's viability.
  • The parade has faced prior disruptions, including cancellations from 2018 to 2022 due to COVID-19 and internal disputes, as well as gang violence-related arrests in 2024.
  • Organizers have expressed uncertainty about whether the parade will return in future years, citing ongoing safety and immigration-related concerns.