Eduardo Pecina, 57, is Mexico American and said that although he is a citizen, he and many others fear being racially attacked by being Latin. He said that he usually comes with a group of around 50 people, including some that are undocumented. This year, around 10 appeared.
“Everyone is worried about that, they will approach you and drag it out of your car,” he said. “It is a shame that we have to fear. You come here peacefully, you enjoy our culture, enjoy our food and enjoy everything we have to offer.”
Izaguirre wore a green shirt from Mexico and stirred a high post with a large Mexican flag on his head while standing with several family members, including young children. She said it was essential to convey the traditions of her inheritance to the next generation.
Many families with children were in the parade, while the children saw the series of vibrant floats with wide smiles, some with Mexican flags such as layers of superheroes, others blew in plastic horns. In a nearby barberia, customers tilted their chairs to see the parade.
The attendees said they would celebrate for those who stayed at home and remain proud of their inheritance in the face of threats to their communities.
Lupita Romero, 42, a local chef and artist, supported her latest creations, several hand -painted skeletons of 18 feet tall made of Pape Maché. Skeletons are a symbol used in the celebrations of the Mexican day of the dead that honor their ancestors.
“Especially in difficult times, we have to remember that they will always be alive in our hearts. We are never alone,” he said.
Two of the skeletons seemed to ride a bike and paint the face, including one with a bright red face paint and two long black braids on the side of their head. Others were painted in the style of Mexican fighters with masks and layers.
“It is incredibly important to be here and show support for ourselves and for those who cannot be here,” he said.
Garcia said that celebrating the parade in Little Village on Sunday was “an important statement that shows that we have been here for more than 100 years as a community.”
Feliberto Ramírez, 72, who was born in Chicago and is a American Mexican, said he was proud.
