Long Beach has canceled its annual Día de los Muertos parade for 2025, citing fears among community members that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) could target the public event. Although city officials say they are not aware of any specific plans to enforce immigration law at the parade, the decision was made “out of an abundance of caution” because of the parade’s size and public visibility.
Councilmember Mary Zendejas requested the cancelation, and the city pointed to “genuine fears” that federal enforcement actions might suddenly and indiscriminately affect people who simply want to participate. The city also called off the Arte y Ofrendas Festival, a related cultural event usually held alongside the parade.
Vendors and organizers expressed sadness over the decision. Roberto Carlos Lemus, involved in last year’s festival, noted how integral the parade has become to Long Beach’s Hispanic heritage and cultural life. Many local businesses and community members worry about the economic fallout, especially as Latino Restaurant Week is set to begin soon.
In a move to soften the impact, the City Council voted to roll this year’s allocated parade funds into next year’s event. Meanwhile, the Long Beach Justice Fund received a budget boost, increasing resources for legal assistance for immigration‑related cases.
Supporters of the cancelation say public safety and peace of mind are critical, especially for those who live with the fear of being caught in immigration sweeps. Critics argue the decision erodes trust and chills civic participation among immigrant communities—but city leaders insist they want everyone to feel safe in public spaces.
