When the world seems to be falling apart, there is something that will never reach that despair, and that is community. The shared love for one’s culture, the food that connects people over its exquisite flavor, and unbreakable love for each other is what defines a community. 

Hispanic Heritage Month and Mexican Independence day are occasions to be celebrated, but concerning the present, what is going to happen in regards to these commemorations with America’s new policies? Hispanic Heritage Month starts from Sep. 15 and ends on Oct. 15. Its purpose is to recognize Hispanic culture, history, and the impact they have had on the United States.

“I really love my Hispanic family and the ones that are still in Puerto Rico still. It means a lot to me knowing that we celebrate people that we can’t always see often,” PPCHS junior Olivia Ortiz shares.

Mexican Independence Day is a time where Mexicans gather to celebrate their independence from Spain with delicious Mexican dishes, parades filled with music and bright colors, and most importantly, showing the world that they are proud to be Mexican. With these ongoing Hispanic recognitions, however, there is a fork in the road — President Donald Trump’s recent immigration policies.

Following Trump’s crackdowns on illegal immigrants, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been invading certain areas to get as many illegal immigrants detained as soon as possible. The Hispanic community is the largest group in the U.S. to be undocumented, which makes them one of the main targets. Therefore, festivals have been put to a stop, celebrations postponed, and people are hiding in order to protect themselves from getting deported.

“With immigration crackdowns, I feel like a lot of celebrations this year are going to be more focused now on Hispanic rights regarding illegal immigrants because of all of the policies,”  PPCHS sophomore Emanuel Zapata explains.

Even with the deportations, discrimination, and tension looming over the Hispanic community, the people won’t let their voices be silenced. Some events may have been canceled to protect the community, but many Hispanics believe that this is also a time to showcase their culture.

El Grito marks the start of Mexico’s independence celebrations. This year, the show went on in Sacramento despite recent ICE raids. Additionally, “Fiesta D.C,” the largest Hispanic festival in D.C, did not back down despite fears of deportations, and the community continued to celebrate.

“It is so important to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month,” says PPCHS freshman Zoe Viau. “Some people might feel like they aren’t treated equally, so it’s important to remind them that they are celebrated and respected in today’s world.”

While it seems like the new policies may divide the Hispanic community, erase traditions, or create challenges for families, they won’t stop people from honoring and recognizing their heritage. Despite these challenges, the country’s Hispanic communities remain resilient and united in their culture.