Pilsen Parade Sees Reduced Attendance Amid Immigration Concerns

Mario Perez stood on the curb, cheering as vibrant dancers twirled down the street on Saturday afternoon. Ribbons and ruffles gleamed in the sunlight. Yet, he noticed a face watching from a window above. ‘They’re still afraid to celebrate,’ said Perez, 54. ‘People want to come out, but they fear arrest.’

Perez was among many immigrants attending the 25th annual Mexican Independence Day Parade in Pilsen. The event displayed vintage cars, folk dancers, and lively musicians along 18th Street to Harrison Park. This tradition is a significant part of the Latino neighborhood, where Mexican American culture thrives in local restaurants, shops, and murals.

However, the crowd was notably thinner compared to previous years, mirroring last year’s parade. This change followed the Department of Homeland Security’s Operation Midway Blitz, a 64-day immigration enforcement operation in Chicago and its suburbs. Edwin Barrera observed from a bench outside an antique shop. ‘Usually, chairs are set out and people gather early,’ said Barrera, 50, a two-decade Pilsen resident. ‘It’s no surprise that many have not shown up.’

Despite concerns, the 2025 Pilsen parade moved forward as planned, although the downtown Mexican Independence Day festival was postponed the previous year. Vicky Lugo, secretary of the United Merchants of Pilsen Chamber of Commerce, confirmed no federal immigration agents were reported at the event.

Some locals had different recollections. Ramon Lopez, 61, watched from his apartment, remembering how immigration agents, heavily armed, were present at last year’s event. This year, they were absent. ‘It’s more comfortable now,’ said Lopez. ‘You see police officers, but no ICE agents.’

Yet, some neighbors stayed home, worried about undercover federal agents. Although the blitz ended, immigration enforcement arrests have persisted. Esmeralda Velasco highlighted ongoing fears among residents. Social media has shown ICE activity throughout Chicago, especially on the Northwest and Southwest sides, causing alarm in immigrant communities.

‘We’re still standing up for them,’ said Velasco, 42, referring to fearful neighbors. ‘We’re their voice.’ Celebrating culture became important for those like Velasco. Mexican Independence Day, on Sept. 16, remains a significant observance. Velasco hoped that photos and videos would reassure absent community members that pride persists.

Laughter erupted as children watched a toddler on a miniature horse and three Xoloitzcuintles, Mexico’s national dog breed, following. Alonzo Sotelo, 4, rode in the parade, joined by adults on horses, on West 18th Street, Sept. 5, 2026, in Chicago.

Liliana Baiman, who moved to Pilsen from Ohio, appreciated the cultural experience for her son. ‘We don’t get this in Ohio,’ said Baiman, 40. ‘Being in a community where people look like me feels comforting.’

Pilsen residents have an online watch group to alert about potential ICE activities. While some locals feel safer, many avoid public events like the parade. ‘People realize this is ongoing,’ said Baiman. ‘We must support each other.’

The celebration gathered attendees of all ages. Spectators, some in wheelchairs, waved Mexican flags. Benjamin Raya, a Mexican immigrant, enjoyed the music, rocking his baby along as drums beat. For Raya, 29, the sounds evoke memories of home. ‘This connects me to my country,’ he said. ‘It feels like I’m home.’