US cities cancel July 4th due to immigration raids

Photo of Richard Dykes in Unsplash

For the first time in years, several predominantly Latino communities in Southern California have opted to cancel or postpone their Fourth of July celebrations. In cities like Cudahy, Bell Gardens, and Huntington Park, fears of immigration raids by ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) have transformed the holiday into a symbol of vulnerability.

Which cities have canceled their celebrations?

Cudahy, where 97% of the population is Latino, officially canceled its July 3rd event. The city cited “security concerns,” though residents and local officials confirmed it was a direct response to the increase in immigration raids in the area.

Bell Gardens, also with a Latino demographic of 96 %, canceled concerts and film screenings. The tone of the official statement was more cautious, But community sources report widespread fear among residents.

In Huntington ParkMayor Arturo Flores said the decision to postpone the celebration was due to a “domestic terror campaign” by ICE, referring to arrests without clear identification, hooded agents, and the use of unmarked vans.

“It's not just the undocumented community. We have American citizens living in fear of going out to a park.”, Flores said.

Why is there so much fear?

Reports in recent days indicate that ICE has intensified operations in urban areas with a high Latino density. Local accounts speak of warrantless arrests, surveillance at public events, and the use of undercover tactics. Although ICE has officially denied that the raids are targeted at the Fourth of July, the timing has sown a climate of mistrust.

In the words of Councilman Kevin de León, who represents districts in East Los Angeles:

"These operations are cruel and inhumane. Canceling July 4th is an act of protection, not protest.".

Local businesses, street vendors, and cultural organizers have also been financially affected, having invested resources in now-suspended events.

Although federal authorities have not confirmed an intensification of raids directly linked to these dates, local leaders have opted to prevent situations of risk or collective fear.

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Sources:

• The Guardian
• NBC Los Angeles