Milwaukie, OR – As the vibrant rhythms of mariachi music filled North Clackamas Park, Milwaukie’s annual Fiesta Latina en el Parque unfolded on September 13, 2025, drawing hundreds to celebrate the richness of Latino heritage. This year’s festival, however, carried a unique weight, occurring amidst a palpable climate of apprehension that led to the cancellation or modification of numerous other Latino cultural events across Oregon. While fear of heightened immigration enforcement cast a shadow over many communities, Milwaukie’s celebration stood as a testament to cultural resilience and community spirit.
A Day of Joy and Cultural Expression
The Fiesta Latina en el Parque transformed North Clackamas Park into a lively hub of activity. Families and individuals of all backgrounds gathered to immerse themselves in Latino culture, enjoying a diverse array of offerings. The air buzzed with the sounds of live music, featuring performances by groups like Barrio Mestizo and the soulful melodies of mariachi singer Gemanereida Barragán-Cruz. Attendees savored authentic Latin American cuisine from local vendors, participated in energetic dance classes, and engaged in traditional games like Lotería. The free, family-friendly event, open to all, provided a welcoming space for cultural exchange and communal celebration.
The Lingering Shadow of Immigration Fears
This year’s fiesta took place against a backdrop of significant anxiety within immigrant communities across Oregon and the broader United States. In 2025, concerns over increased immigration enforcement actions, amplified by anti-immigrant rhetoric, prompted several organizers to cancel or scale back their planned cultural events. The Latino Fest in Madras, an annual September tradition, was canceled entirely. Organizers cited an inability to guarantee the safety of participants, expressing fears that attending could endanger families due to potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in public spaces. Similarly, the El Grito celebration in Hillsboro opted for an online format instead of an in-person gathering, prioritizing safety.
Organizers of these events pointed to a heightened sense of fear among community members, with reports of rumors of raids and a general apprehension about participating in large public gatherings. Data indicates a significant increase in federal requests for assistance with immigration enforcement directed at Oregon law enforcement agencies, with a 265% rise in such requests documented over a 12-month period ending May 31, 2025. Despite Oregon being a sanctuary state, which aims to limit local government and law enforcement’s involvement in federal immigration cases, federal agencies like ICE can still conduct arrests. This complex legal landscape contributes to the unease felt by many.
Voices of Courage and Determination
Despite the prevailing climate of fear, the decision to proceed with Milwaukie’s Fiesta Latina was met with relief and gratitude by many. Mariachi singer Gemanereida Barragán-Cruz, a featured performer, shared her happiness that the event could continue. “Especially in these hard times that are happening in today’s society, it touches my heart to also see people who are non-Latinos loving our culture,” Barragán-Cruz stated, acknowledging the anxieties many immigrants face daily. She added, “I can’t deny that we go out into the world every day afraid that something might happen. You can clearly see today that our community is strong and we’re pushing forward, even with all the things that are happening”.
Clackamas County spokesperson Scott Anderson provided a statement affirming the event’s purpose: “Our priority is to celebrate Latino heritage and culture while ensuring that families and community members feel supported… We are excited to see all who join us in celebrating this annual community event”. While it remains unclear why organizers elected to proceed with the in-person festival when others opted out, the decision allowed for a crucial space of cultural affirmation to remain open.
The Enduring Importance of Cultural Gatherings
Events like Fiesta Latina en el Parque serve as vital pillars for community cohesion, cultural preservation, and collective well-being. In an era marked by increased immigration scrutiny and divisive rhetoric, these festivals offer a sanctuary for identity, a platform for shared traditions, and a powerful reminder of cultural pride. For many, these gatherings are not just celebrations but acts of defiance against attempts to marginalize or instill fear.
The cancellations of other significant cultural events across Oregon highlight the tangible impact of the current socio-political climate on community life. The decision to hold Fiesta Latina en el Parque in Milwaukie, therefore, represents more than just a day of festivities; it signifies a community’s determination to uphold its cultural identity and foster connections, even when facing external pressures. As the news from this event demonstrates, the spirit of celebration and unity continues to find expression, offering a beacon of hope and strength.
This news from Oregon underscores a broader national conversation about immigration policy and its human impact, showing how cultural events become focal points for community resilience and resistance.
