Pilsen Festival Organizers To ICE Stay Away From Fiesta Del Sol
Fiesta del Sol, a vibrant community festival in Pilsen, is set to attract over 1. 2 million people from Thursday to Sunday. Organizers have called on federal immigration authorities to stay away, expressing concerns over potential ICE enforcement actions that could create fear among festival-goers. Since January, they have partnered with local immigration rights groups to safeguard attendees' rights. Brandon Lee of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights highlighted that ICE has increased its presence in public spaces, raising alarms about unannounced visits similar to a recent incident at the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture.
Elected officials and community leaders pledged to stand against intimidation from federal agents, emphasizing that community celebrations should be joyful, not fearful. Mayor Brandon Johnson reiterated the city's dedication to protecting undocumented families, emphasizing their vital role in Chicago's community. This year’s festival will include an immigration and citizenship expo, offering legal information and support. Fiesta del Sol runs from 3-10 p. m.
on Thursday and 11 a. m. -10 p. m. from Friday to Sunday, with free admission.