Chicago’s annual Cinco de Mayo parade has been canceled for the second year in a row, with organizers citing concerns in the city’s Mexican community amid immigration enforcement efforts by the Trump administration.
The Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce and Casa Puebla announced Saturday they are canceling the 2026 parade and festivities, according to NBC Chicago.
“This decision comes in light of the challenges our Mexican community continues to face under this administration,” Casa Puebla Inc. and Cermak Road Chamber of Commerce Inc. President Hector Escobar said in a statement about the cancellation.
“Many families are experiencing fear and uncertainty due to increased immigration enforcement actions and the ongoing threat of raids,” Escobar added.
The event, typically marked by music, dancing, and cultural celebration, has seen reduced participation, according to organizers.
Escobar said community members have “understandably withdrawn from public gatherings and celebrations.
“There is nothing to celebrate.”
Organizers cited similar reasons when they canceled the 2025 parade.
