Two predominantly Latino cities, Cudahy and Bell Gardens, have canceled their Independence Day events due to safety concerns linked to ongoing federal immigration raids in Southern California. Cudahy, where 97% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, announced on Wednesday that it would postpone its July 3 celebration, which was set to feature live music, food trucks, and fireworks at Cudahy Park. The city stated that its parks would remain open despite the postponement.
Bell Gardens, which borders Cudahy, also canceled its planned events, including a concert and movie nights, citing safety concerns related to federal immigration enforcement activities. According to KTLA, both cities have decided to take these precautions “out of an abundance of caution” for their residents.
The cancellations follow controversial remarks by Cudahy Vice Mayor Cynthia Gonzalez, who called on local gangs to resist federal immigration agents. Her comments, made in a video on social media, have sparked backlash and led to calls for her resignation from the Los Angeles Police Protective League. Gonzalez is now under investigation by the FBI for her statements, which some interpret as inciting violence. However, her attorney has clarified that Gonzalez’s intention was to encourage peaceful organizing within the Latino community.
Since the immigration raids began on June 6, federal agents have arrested over 1,600 immigrants, mostly men without criminal convictions. The raids have prompted protests and heightened tensions in the affected communities. As reported by Los Angeles Magazine, these actions have been described as invasive and aggressive, contributing to the decision to cancel the events.
Recent Comments