ICE advances: Immigrant group postpones Mexican Independence celebrations over fear of raids in U.S.

For more than three decades, Passaic, New Jersey, held one of the state’s largest celebrations of Mexican culture. This year, the city’s traditional Mexican Independence Day parade has been postponed indefinitely as fear of recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrests spreads through the community.

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food, music, have a good time and celebrate the culture

The parade normally takes place toward the end of September. Organizers said they delayed it to protect community members’ safety, according to CBS News. City authorities linked the decision to an increase in ICE arrests in the area since the start of summer.

The move disappointed residents and business owners. Martin Martinez, who recently visited Passaic, described the parade as a chance to share “food, music, have a good time and celebrate the culture.” But he said many residents now feel unable to carry out their normal activities. “You stay home and pray that ICE doesn’t detain you,” Martinez said.

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You stay home and pray that ICE doesn’t detain you

That caution has also affected businesses in the neighborhood known as Little Mexico and in downtown Passaic. Foot traffic has fallen considerably in recent months as many people limit their time outside to avoid encounters with immigration agents.

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great concern

Mayor Hector Lora expressed sadness over the postponement. He participated in the parade on horseback two years ago. In a statement, Lora said the community was experiencing “great concern,” as well as “fear, anxiety and pain,” while acknowledging the organizers’ decision in light of current conditions. Concern intensified after immigration agents arrested at least 75 people in Passaic during July, including one U.S. citizen, according to a Documented analysis based on Deportation Data Project data.

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fear, anxiety and pain