Arts & Entertainment

Chicago’s Cinco De Mayo Parade Again Canceled Due to Immigration Raid Concerns, Organizers Say

Video: Hector Escobar, president of Casa Puebla and the Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce, speaks about the parade’s cancellation on the April 22, 2026, episode of “Chicago Tonight.” (Produced by Blake Thor) 

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The annual Cinco de Mayo Parade in Little Village is being canceled for the second year in a row due to concerns over federal immigration raids, organizers announced.

The Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce and Casa Puebla said in a statement the Mexican community continues to face challenges under the Trump administration, and community members have “understandably withdrawn” from public gatherings and celebrations.

The announcement comes after immigrant communities have been the target of the Trump administration’s aggressive federal immigration enforcement campaign in the Chicago area known as “Operation Midway Blitz,” which peaked in the fall. While operations have scaled back, families remain fearful, organizers say.

“Many families are experiencing fear and uncertainty due to increased immigration enforcement actions and the ongoing threat of raids,” according to the statement.

“There is nothing to celebrate,” the statement continued.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The parade, which typically runs on Cermak Road between Ashland Avenue and Marshall Boulevard, has been held for more than 40 years, according to organizers.

Last year, organizers canceled the parade, also citing federal immigration enforcement concerns.

In an interview on “Chicago Tonight” last year, Casa Puebla and the Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce President Hector Escobar said, “We consult around the neighborhood and that was best for the community, to keep them safe.”

Organizers said they remain hopeful conditions will improve, so the community can come together once again to celebrate Mexican culture.

“We look forward to continuing the Cinco de Mayo festivities for many years to come when our community can do so safely and with peace of mind,” the statement reads.

Organizers will also hold a news conference Tuesday morning to formally announce the decision to cancel the parade.

Contact Eunice Alpasan: [email protected]

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