Two predominantly Latino communities in Los Angeles County have canceled events around the July Fourth holiday, citing safety concerns as federal immigration agents conduct raids throughout the region.
Cudahy, where 97% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino, announced Wednesday on social media that it was postponing its Independence Day celebration, originally scheduled for July 3. The event, set to take place at Cudahy Park from 3 to 9 p.m., was to feature live music, food trucks and a fireworks show.
“The city of Cudahy has decided to postpone the Independence Day celebration … due to recent events and concerns regarding the safety of our residents. We appreciate your cooperation,” the city said in a statement. Officials noted that city parks will remain open.
In addition to the immigration raids, Cudahy recently made headlines due to the controversial comments made by Vice Mayor Cynthia Gonzalez. In a video posted on social media, Gonzalez called on “cholos,” or gang members, to stand up to federal immigration agents.
“You guys tag everything up, claiming hood, and now that your hood’s being invaded by the biggest gang there is, there ain’t a peep out of you,” Gonzalez said in the video. She referenced “18th Street” and “Florence,” two notorious street gangs, and appeared to be addressing their members directly. She said U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents are “running amok all up in your streets.”
The Los Angeles Police Protective League, which represents about 9,000 officers, has called for Gonzalez’s resignation and potential prosecution.
Bell Gardens, which borders Cudahy, also announced Wednesday that it was canceling a concert and two outdoor movie nights “out of an abundance of caution regarding concerns for resident safety over federal immigration enforcement activities.”
The events were scheduled for June 26, July 3 and July 10.
Nearby Huntington Park, also predominantly Latino, announced on Tuesday that it was postponing its July 3rd Independence Day celebration but did not specify a reason.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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