INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — A decades-old festival designed to celebrate Hispanic heritage in central Indiana won’t happen this year due to safety concerns, a Latino nonprofit announced Wednesday.

Hispanics in Indiana and elsewhere in the nation have faced several issues that could lead to feelings of threat and insecurity: fear of deportation; the impact of federal immigration policies; anti-immigration legislation and rhetoric; and hate crimes and discrimination.

Miriam Acevedo Davis, president and chief executive officer of the nonprofit La Plaza, made the announcement in a news release. Acevedo Davis declined an interview with News 8 to discuss specific reasons.

Part of the release said, “This difficult decision was made after thoughtful consideration of several factors beyond our control and, most importantly, out of deep concern for the safety and well-being of the Hispanic community. While FIESTA has been a beloved tradition for more than four decades, bringing together thousands of people to celebrate Hispanic American culture, music, and community, circumstances this year have made it impossible to host the event in the way our community deserves.”

“While we are not gathering in the traditional way this year, we believe reshaping the event is the most responsible course of action to ensure the health and safety of our families, vendors, and supporters.”

The 2024 Fiesta festival happened from noon-8 p.m. Sept. 21 at downtown’s Military Park, with music, dancing, food, children’s activities, community service booths, and a health and wellness fair. This year’s Fiesta had been set for Sept. 20.

Instead, La Plaza will partner with a Spanish-language television broadcaster during Hispanic Heritage Month, from Sept. 15-Oct. 15, to highlight the central Indiana Latino community, the release said.

About The Author

See author's posts