This year, when I arrived to photograph the annual New York Cinco De Mayo parade, I was met with empty streets and eerie silence. Gone were the colorful costumes, the music filling the air and the rich scent of Mexican cuisine. Not a single flag could be seen anywhere.

I walked the empty parade route and later learned that the parade community was advised to steer clear of the parade route as news reports emerged about individuals being taken away without due process.

I decided to go to Spanish Harlem where I discovered an obscure street festival; as soon as I heard a mariachi band playing and witnessed people dancing, the atmosphere transformed from surreal to real.

 History has proven that the suppression of cultural traditions greatly increases their value. Fear cant erase culture; rather, it enhances its value. Mexico is recognized as one of the earliest significant cultures in the world  and will not be diminished by the cancellation of a parade.The 2025 Cinco De Mayo parade that did not happen is now part of American history.