Passaic, N.J. – The city’s beloved Mexican Parade, a tradition for more than three decades that usually draws about 15,000 participants and visitors, has been indefinitely postponed. Organizers said the decision was driven by concerns that attendees could become targets of immigration enforcement actions.

Impact on local economy and families

The parade was slated for Sept. 27, but city officials and community leaders opted to delay rather than cancel outright. The postponement leaves a void for local businesses that rely on the influx of visitors. Leticia Ortega, owner of La Fortaleza, a Mexican restaurant known for its cemitas, said her sales have slowed dramatically. “We would try every day, hoping for people to come back and buy our things,” Ortega said, noting she has already cut her staff in half to stay afloat.

Another restaurant owner, who asked to be identified only as Jose, echoed the sentiment, adding that the decision, while disappointing, was understandable given the visible presence of ICE in Passaic. “I would’ve liked to see this festival happen this year, but the organizer made the right decision because you’re seeing a lot of ICE in Passaic,” he said.

Mayor’s response and community hopes

Mayor Hector Lora expressed disappointment but urged the Mexican community to unite around alternative celebrations. “I’m very disappointed. In fact, I’m still hoping that leaders within the Mexican community come together and do something, whether a festival or an activity, to highlight the Mexican community,” Lora said.

Last week Passaic hosted a Mexican rodeo that reportedly concluded without any arrests, yet organizers remain wary that a larger, statewide‑drawing event could attract heightened immigration enforcement.

Personal stakes

For Ortega, the issue is personal. Her son‑in‑law, a U.S. citizen, was detained in October of last year, allegedly abused while in a detention center before being transferred to Louisiana. “He was taken last year in October. He was in the detention center and he got abused there and they sent them to Louisiana,” Ortega said.

No new date set

Organizers have not announced a new date for the parade. Community members and business owners hope that a future gathering can proceed safely, allowing the city’s vibrant Mexican heritage to be celebrated without fear of enforcement actions.

Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.