Mexicans

Organizers of Passaic, New Jersey's annual Mexican Parade have indefinitely postponed this year's event, citing fears that attendees could face immigration enforcement action. The parade, a more than 30-year tradition that typically draws about 15,000 people to the city with the highest concentration of Mexicans in New Jersey, had been scheduled for Sept. 27. No new date has been announced.

The move has disappointed local business owners already struggling with a decline in customers, some of whom had hoped for a boost from parade visitors. Passaic Mayor Hector Lora said he was disappointed by the postponement and urged community leaders to organize an alternative celebration. Other residents said they understood the decision given increased ICE presence in the area. A separate Mexican rodeo held in Passaic last week reportedly took place without incident, but organizers remain wary that a larger, statewide event could draw heightened scrutiny from immigration authorities.