The Mexican Cultural Committee of Chicago hosted the annual Mexican Independence eve celebration — El Grito, on Monday evening at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Pilsen.

However, the mood was subdued amid concerns of increased enforcement activity in Chicago by agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Committee president Teresa Fraga says she doesn’t regret hosting the event under the current circumstances.

“We’re resilient, you know. We dare to cross the river without a raft,” she said.

Fraga shared numerous protections that went into ensuring the safety of those attending, including having lawyers and watch groups patrolling the neighborhood to keep an eye out for ICE agents. A fence secured the perimeter and extra security was on hand.

The El Grito celebration honors El Grito

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