ROCKFORD, Ill. — Latino leaders in Rockford are embracing their cultural pride through the 9th annual Tamale Fest, which took place along East State Street. Despite concerns over federal immigration enforcement, the event was held successfully.

The Tamale Fest is more than a food festival; it's a celebration of the Latino community. Attendees enjoyed displays of Latino culture, from tamales to vintage cars.

Manuel Salgado, President and Founder of MASA, emphasized the importance of the event.

"This is us showing we belong here. We're not hiding in some back alley event that no one will ever hear about," Salgado said. "This is all diverse walks of lives celebrating a culture that is getting locked up and put in cages for no reason."

Salgado expressed satisfaction with the turnout, despi

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