Tue Sep 16 03:20:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Fewer Turn Out for Chicago’s Mexican Independence Day Parade Amid Immigration Fears**
CHICAGO – Thousands of people dressed in green and red filled the streets of Little Village on Sunday for the annual Mexican Independence Day parade. Brightly colored floats and traditional performances showcased Mexican culture, but attendance was notably lower this year due to fears over increased immigration enforcement.
Some attendees displayed signs calling for justice for Silverio Villegas-Gonzalez, who was fatally shot by an immigration agent on Friday. ICE claims Villegas-Gonzalez, who was in the country illegally, resisted arrest and drove his car into officers. Critics are calling for an investigation into the shooting.
Despite the concerns, paradegoers like Maribel Izaguirre emphasized the importance of celebrating their heritage and showing solidarity. Local organizations were prepared to offer legal aid to anyone targeted by ICE. Representative Chuy Garcia attended the parade as well, speaking on the importance of the day to the community.
First Piper 