Mexican Fiesta and Milwaukee reiterate no immigration concerns ahead of festival
MILWAUKEE (CBS58) — The 52nd annual Mexican Fiesta kicks off this Friday, Aug. 22!
Also beginning on Friday is the nationwide conference for the National Guard, taking place at the Baird Center. As approximately 4,000 uniformed members of the national guard arrive downtown, some are worried it could spark concern over immigration enforcement.
"I’m sure there are people that are concerned," said Sylvia Cantu, a resident who will be attending Mexican Fiesta.
As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, events around the country like Mexican Fiesta, are underway. But, with mass deportations on the rise, several Hispanic events have been cancelled like those in Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, and the Carolinas.
"Times are really tough for Hispanics who are undocumented. To be honest, I don't know. I don't think there will be many people at the Fiesta tomorrow," shared Sergio Hernandez, a Milwaukee resident.
"They have reason to be upset over what’s going on, a lot of people are getting stopped and deported. I don't think it’s going to keep them from going to Mexican Fiesta, it’s a yearly event everyone looks forward to it all year long" said Sylvia Cantu, who plans on going to Mexican Fiesta.
As thousands of uniformed National Guard members will go through downtown this weekend, Milwaukee's Common Council President José Pérez put out a statement, trying to calm any concerns.
He said this national conference has been pre-planned for over a year, adding "attendees are not here as part of any immigration enforcement activities. Attendees are here solely to enjoy their conference, and all the amenities our great city has to offer."
Ruben Burgos, President of the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin Hispanic Scholarship Foundation (WHSF) says they've reached out to the governor's office, who tells them people at the festival don't have to worry. "We’ve reached out law enforcement agencies, there's no problems, questions, no inquiries, I have no problems about ICE showing up at the grounds. They won’t."
When asked if immigration officials can enter onto Henry Maier Festival Grounds, he said: "it’s a private event so we’ll have to deal with that at that time."
The festival is the main driver for scholarship funds for WHSF. In 52 years, giving back nearly $2 million to students.
So, Ruben hopes the community keeps showing up, to give back. "It’s unfortunate ... there’s some serious concerns and we understand that, and if we have less attendance, we’ll still put on a great show."
As the National Guard confirms they're only in town for the conference, residents like David Huebl say they're ready to celebrate: "I think it’s going to be safe down there."
Mexican Fiesta runs from Friday to Sunday at Henry Maier Festival Park.