CHICAGO (WLS) — The 86th annual Mexican Independence Day Parade went on as planned Sunday in Little Village despite the concerns about increased immigration enforcement.

There were significantly fewer people in attendance this year by traditional standards, but there were still thousands who did come out to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage in what felt like not just an act of pride, but an act of defiance.

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From “ICE out of Chicago” to “Hands off Chicago,” signs were everywhere Sunday lining 26th Street, nearly as ubiquitous as the green white and red of the Mexican flag which adorned nearly every inch of the parade route in Little Village. Spectators and participants alike made it clear their Mexican Independence Day celebrations would not be muted.

“It’s just a great experience. Always a good time, and Viva Mexico,” spectator Griselda Herrera said.

“We have to let everyone know that we’re proud to be Mexican, and we’re not going to let anyone scare us,” spectator Vicente Hernandez said. “We’re here. We’re not going anywhere.”

The party continued as it does every year. The vibrant sights and sounds of Mexican culture made themselves present, as did a large contingent of politicians, including Mayor Brandon Johnson, showing their support for a community which these days feels as if its under siege.

“We deserve to celebrate. We deserve to be proud,” 22nd Ward Ald. Michael Rodriguez said. “We deserve to be on 26th Street as proud Mexican-Americans.”

Immigration advocates marched in the parade while also handing out “know your rights” cards to spectators and keeping a watchful eye on the streets just beyond the area. A contingent of attorneys were at the ready, in case they were needed.

“Even this morning there were some sightings of some agents in the area,” said Andre Gordillo with the Illinois Coalition of Immigrant and Refugee Rights. “So thankfully, as of now, we haven’t seen anything, but we know they are out there, and they have a quota to hit.”

With other Mexican Independence Day celebrations were canceled or postponed this year, and many people choosing to watch the broadcast of Sunday s parade from home, organizers remained grateful for those who did show up.

“They deserve to feel joy,” said Jennifer Aguilar with the Little Village Chamber of Commerce. “They deserve to celebrate and to have this beautiful moment despite everything that’s going on.”

Ahead of the Mexican Independence Day Parade, runners and walkers were out in Little Village. The El Grito 5K Family Run and Walk also happened along 26th Street. Organizers said it’s more than a race; it’s a celebration of culture and community.

READ MORE | Pilsen Mexican Independence Day parade announced despite immigration crackdown, other communities canceling events

Meanwhile this weekend, Chicago is preparing for a possible a influx of vehicles and people downtown who will be out celebrating Mexican Independence Day. In past years, gridlock has left the Loop inaccessible.

The Chicago Police Department is preparing to implement restricted vehicle traffic downtown in the event of extreme conditions this weekend. If circumstances warrant, police said vehicle traffic may be restricted to residents who live or work in the central business district.

Residents and employees will be allowed entry at select access points if they show their driver’s license or employee ID. Police said anyone driving in to attend event or have reservations should plan to provide proof, such as a ticket or electronic confirmation.

The procedures will only apply to vehicles and not pedestrians.

In the event of limiting vehicle access to the downtown area, the following locations will serve as access points:
-Chicago/Green
-Halsted/Washington
– Halsted/Madison
-Halsted/Jackson
-Division/LaSalle
-Roosevelt/Canal
-Taylor/Des Plaines
-18th/State
-18th/Michigan
-18th/Indiana