Cinco de Mayo Parade Canceled in Chicago Over Deportation Fears

• Mexican community fears persecution
• Trump threatens sanctuary cities
• Vendors lose a vital opportunity

This year’s iconic Cinco de Mayo parade in Chicago has been canceled.

Organizers explained that the fear among immigrants triggered by President Donald Trump’s policies played a major role in the decision.

The Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce and Casa Puebla decided to cancel both the parade and all related festivities.

In a joint statement, they described the decision as “difficult but necessary.”

Cinco de Mayo Parade Canceled Over Deportation Fears

Organizers of the traditional Cinco de Mayo celebration in Chicago, Illinois, announced the cancellation of the event, citing the immigration policies of the Trump administration and the fear they are causing among the Mexican community. They said the decision prioritizes the… pic.twitter.com/lc2zrvin8t

– NMás (@nmas) April 11, 2025

“Our community is deeply concerned about the raids and the threat ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) poses to families who work tirelessly to give their children a better future,” the statement reads.

Héctor Escobar, president of both organizations, made it clear: “We feel there is nothing to celebrate.”

Escobar also denounced what he described as constant harassment and persecution of the immigrant community.

The parade in southwest Chicago is not only a cultural tradition—it also serves as a significant economic driver for local vendors.

What Does Cinco de Mayo Commemorate?

Every year, the event commemorates Mexico’s historic victory over the French army at the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862.

Since 2001, Cinco de Mayo has even held a place at the White House, following its introduction by former President George W. Bush.

However, in 2017, Donald Trump broke with this tradition during his first year in office, sparking backlash from the Mexican-American community.

Chicago, a sanctuary city, has been a repeated target of the president’s criticism, according to EFE.

Trump’s Threats

Recently, Trump renewed his threats against cities that refuse to cooperate with immigration authorities, warning that they could lose federal funding.

In response to these comments, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson reaffirmed his support for immigrants and pledged to continue defending their rights.

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