Montgomery County, Maryland, has canceled what was meant to be its second annual Hispanic Heritage Festival in Wheaton, citing concerns about community safety amid increased federal immigration enforcement.

The decision, announced during Hispanic Heritage Month, has sparked criticism from some local leaders who said the move sends the wrong message.

“It was not an easy decision to make,” said Luisa Cardona, assistant chief administrative officer for County Executive Marc Elrich.

While Cardona said the county believes the Hispanic community deserves to be celebrated, the decision was made out of caution and concern for the well-being of those who would attend the event.

“We didn’t think that a festival at this time was the best medium, due to growing fears and concerns of federal immigr

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