CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) - Mayor Brandon Johnson seemed satisfied with the way the City handled crowds and caravans during weekend celebrations of Mexican Independence Day. But, he acknowledged things could be better.
Mayor Johnson praised the traditional garb, the music and the high spirits of the Mexican Independence celebrations. But, justifying the street closures, he noted his first responsibility is to keep people safe and make sure hospitals are accessible and emergency vehicles can get where they need to go.
“The balance is we celebrate culture and making sure that our first responders have access to hospitals and clinics and all of the type of movement that takes place day-to-day. Whether there’s a celebration or not, I have a responsibility to ensure that people who are experiencing health crises or any emergency that we have the ability to do that,” Johnson said.
Still, he looked ahead too.
“There are already some ideas that are already rushing in. Trust me, I didn’t realize how many people have my cell phone number, and people have strong recommendations, but, again, the beauty of the City of Chicago is really our diversity, and it was incredible display of Mexican Independence, which is really a remarkable testament to liberation across the diaspora,” Johnson added.
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