Mayor: Chicago ready for Mexican Independence Day events

LITTLE VILLAGE (WBBM Newsradio) -- City leaders say they'll be working to make sure Chicagoans and visitors from all over feel safe and welcomed during this weekend's Mexican Independence Day events, including the signature parade through Little Village on Saturday.

"Viva Mexico!" Mayor Brandon Johnson exclaimed during an appearance here Tuesday morning, as Mexican music blared from a taqueria just beyond the famous "Bienvenidos" arch stretching over 26th Street.

"This year, I hope Mexican Independence Day can be an opportunity for Chicago to reclaim some of the joy that was lost last year," he continued, referring to the Trump Administration's immigration crackdown, known as "Operation Midway Blitz," which began just days before Mexican Independence celebrations in the city.

Interim Police Superintendent Fred Waller said the department has canceled days off to make sure the force has enough officers out in the city during a busy weekend, especially downtown, where car caravans have in the past jammed up traffic.

"If needed, street closures will be implemented to safely manage traffic and maintain access for emergency vehicles," Waller said. "Our Chicago police officers will be working to safeguard planned celebrations as well as all of our communities across the city."

More than 400,000 people are expected to line 26th Street Saturday for the parade, which is set to step off at 12:00 noon. The theme of the parade is "United We Ride: Stronger Than Ever," which is a nod to the community's equestrian traditions as well as the spirit of unity after what Mayor Johnson called a "challenging" year.

City leaders say one of the highlights of the weekend will be the return of the El Grito festival in Grant Park, which was canceled last year as immigration agents fanned out across the city and suburbs. Organizer Corina Sanchez told reporters it's imporant for the city's Mexican community to come together.

"Our community's traditions endure, and ... we will always find a way to come together," she said.

Mexican Consul General Reyna Torres Mendivil joined city leaders in Little Village, saying she hopes Chicagoans will come together to celebrate culture ... and resilience.

"This is a city where everyone can feel safe," Ambassador Torres Mendivil said. "This city not only has broad shoulders but long arms to embrace everybody."