Gemanereida Barragán-Cruz sings a mariachi version of “Bésame Mucho” during the Fiesta Latina en el Parque in Milwaukie, Ore., on Sept. 13, 2025.
Joni Land / OPB
Multiple Latino heritage events in Oregon have either canceled celebrations or moved them online amid fears of increased immigration enforcement.
But the annual Fiesta Latina en el Parque event at North Clackamas Park in Milwaukie was held normally on Saturday. Hundreds gathered to listen to music, enjoy food and celebrate Latino culture.
Those in attendance could participate in dance classes and play lotería, a Mexican game similar to bingo. One of the main attractions was mariachi singer Gemanereida Barragán-Cruz, 19, of Portland. Her powerful voice rang throughout the park, singing classics like “Bésame Mucho.”
Related: Hillsboro’s El Grito celebration of Mexican independence to move online
Barragán-Cruz told OPB she was happy that Fiesta Latina was not canceled this year.
“Especially in these hard times that are happening in today’s society, it touches my heart to also see people who are non-Latinos loving our culture,” Barragán-Cruz said.
Organizers for other events decided it was too risky to meet in-person, as immigration enforcement efforts have spiked in Oregon and across the country in 2025.
The El Grito celebration in Hillsboro will be held online on Monday, while the Latino Fest in Madras was canceled entirely, saying they could not guarantee the safety of those in attendance.
Cooks with Birrieria Carlos prepare food during the Fiesta Latina en el Parque event in Milwaukie Ore., on Sept. 13, 2025.
Joni Land / OPB
Barragán-Cruz said she understands the fears that many people in the immigrant community are feeling.
“I can’t deny that we go out into the world every day afraid that something might happen,” she said. “You can clearly see today that our community is strong and we’re pushing forward, even with all the things that are happening.”
It’s unclear why organizers elected to continue with the event. Clackamas County spokesperson Scott Anderson declined multiple requests for an interview. Employees for the North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District were not allowed to speak to members of the media.
Anderson did not explain why interviews would not be granted, but provided a written statement Thursday.
“Our priority is to celebrate Latino heritage and culture while ensuring that families and community members feel supported,” Anderson wrote. “We have heard from partners who are eager to hold the event. Our pledge is that Fiesta Latina will be welcoming for everyone. We are excited to see all who join us in celebrating this annual community event.”
Related: Juneteenth to carry on despite other groups canceling large cultural events in Bend
René Canler, the master of ceremonies for Fiesta Latina, said the crowd seemed smaller than last year, but was glad to see so many people coming out to celebrate their culture. He said that kind of solidarity has become increasingly important.
“Community is stronger than any individual,” Canler said. “When we can be vulnerable and allow ourselves to talk rationally to the person in front of us, that’s when we’re heard.”
