Los Angeles, California – In a tense and deeply unsettled moment across Southern California, multiple cities with predominantly Latino populations are pulling back from traditional July Fourth celebrations, citing a climate of fear stirred by federal immigration raids and wildfire risk.
In Cudahy, where nearly 97 percent of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, officials announced the postponement of their Independence Day event, originally set for July 3 at Cudahy Park. The celebration, featuring live music, food trucks, and fireworks, was suspended after the community was rocked by news of stepped-up immigration enforcement throughout the region. “The city of Cudahy has decided to postpone the Independence Day celebration … due to recent events and concerns regarding the safety of our residents,” the city said in a statement, assuring residents that local parks would remain open.
The atmosphere has grown even more charged after Vice Mayor Cynthia Gonzalez called out gang members on social media, urging them to confront federal immigration agents whom she labeled “the biggest gang there is.” Her remarks, which singled out groups like 18th Street and Florence, drew sharp rebukes, including demands for her resignation from the Los Angeles Police Protective League, which represents about 9,000 officers…