Several parades and festivals are scheduled for next month to celebrate Mexican Independence Day, and organizers are speaking out amid rumors of a possible deployment of specialized ICE tactical units to Chicago.

“We do have a contingency plan that we’re going to have volunteers throughout the parade route to help secure areas and also if they see any immigration agents—we’re going to be communicating throughout,” said Vicky Lugo, United Merchants of Pilsen Chamber of Commerce Secretary.

Preparations are underway for the 24 th Annual Mexican Independence Day Parade in Pilsen on September 6 th . Organizers say they have been coordinating with Chicago Police.

“CPD is also going to be obviously on scene throughout the parade to ensure everyone is safe,” she said. “Of course, CPD is not

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