Long Beach cancels Día de los Muertos parade over fears of ICE raids

In an attempt to ensure the safety of participants amid escalating immigration enforcement operations in Los Angeles County, Long Beach has decided to cancel its annual Día de los Muertos celebration, which was scheduled for November 2, 2025. City Councilwoman Mary Zendejas announced the cancellation due to community concerns regarding possible federal raids. While local authorities are unaware of any specific plans by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to target the event, the decision reflects genuine fears amongst residents about indiscriminate enforcement actions. The potential for this federal presence at a large public gathering contributed significantly to the council's choice to act cautiously. Long Beach's cancellation is a continuation of the rising apprehensions from the community about federal law enforcement activities under the Trump administration. The Día de los Muertos event is a crucial tradition celebrating the lives of loved ones who have passed away in Mexican culture. It involves the creation of altars or ofrendas adorned with photos, food, and gifts. This cultural significance makes the cancellation particularly disappointing for the community, who see it as a significant loss of a cherished tradition. City officials hope that the decision to cancel this year’s events will bring peace of mind to worried residents, especially those undocumented who fear the consequences of ICE actions. Local authorities in Long Beach have responded to similar circumstances in the past, with community members frequently expressing concerns related to federal action during public events. In response to the heightened fears, Zendejas emphasized that the decision was made with extreme caution. The cancellations of both the parade and the Arte y Ofrendas Festival, also set for the same date, demonstrate a shift in how local municipalities are addressing the socio-political climate surrounding immigration issues within their jurisdictions. Despite the cancellation, officials have assured the community that funds allocated for this year’s event will be preserved, adding together into a budget of $100,000 for next year's celebrations. Furthermore, Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson condemned federal enforcement actions as cruel and discriminatory. He affirmed his stance against ICE operations entering public spaces, claiming they should have no place in the city. The cancellation and the broader sentiment displayed by city leaders illustrate a proactive approach by local officials to protect their community’s cultural practices and alleviate community fears. As more public events draw near, local authorities will need to navigate this delicate balance between ensuring safety and maintaining traditions that are deeply rooted in community identity.