This choice follows many weeks of listening, truly listening, to families, parade participants, parade volunteers, local leaders, and immigrant-rights partners who help us understand the lived experiences of our community. Many have reminded us that although ICE raids may no longer dominate daily headlines, the threat to our Latino families documented or undocumented remains very real. The presence of immigration enforcement in our region, the fear it generates, and the uncertainty families continue to face are real, immediate, and deeply felt.

For generations, the Milpas Street Holiday Parade has been a space of joy, unity, and cultural pride, an event where every family, regardless of status, could gather safely and celebrate the rich spirit of Santa Barbara’s Eastside. Yet this year, many longtime participants have shared that the level of fear and vulnerability they are experiencing makes joining a large public event feel unsafe. To move forward without honoring those concerns would contradict the very values that this parade was built upon.

After thoughtful deliberation, we believe that pausing the parade is the most compassionate and responsible path. Our priority is, and has always been, the wellbeing, dignity, and safety of our community.

As we look toward the future, we remain committed to rebuilding this celebration in a way that reflects the strength and resilience of our neighborhood. Our hope is that next year the 2026 Milpas Street Holiday Parade will return as an even more inclusive and empowering gathering for all who live in our community. This decision is not easy. But it is rooted in care, solidarity, and an unwavering commitment to stand with our community during uncertain times.