By Hutchinson Tribune Staff
Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids on agriculture facilities this week in southwest Kansas will affect the SW Bricktown Fiesta on Saturday, Sept. 26, in Hutchinson.
On Thursday afternoon, Southwest Kansas Independent Lucha Libre announced it would cancel its professional wrestling exhibition at the fiesta because of ICE activity.
On Friday, the SW Bricktown Neighborhood announced that the fiesta would still take place as scheduled, with the addition of a supply drive to support families affected by the raids. Hutch in Harmony will accept donations of hygiene supplies, canned foods, kids’ snacks, new blankets, dry cereal and letters of support from 5:30 to 7 p.m. to be delivered at an upcoming legal clinic in Liberal. The organization will also accept monetary donations in support of mutual aid efforts.
“Recent activity in southwest Kansas has affected families and communities across our state. We recognize that, for some, joy may look different right now,” the SW Bricktown Neighborhood page posted on Facebook. “Some of our neighbors may choose to stay home this weekend, and we respect that decision. Whether you are able to join us on Saturday or not, you are part of this community. We see you, we hear you, and we stand with you.
“We are not making light of what is happening. We believe there is space to acknowledge these difficult moments while also honoring our heritage, celebrating our traditions and coming together in strength and solidarity.
“However you choose to spend Saturday, you are not alone. We are a community built on our families, our culture, our traditions and our willingness to stand together when our neighbors need us most,” the post concluded. “Our heritage is worth honoring. Our community is worth protecting. And together, we are stronger.”
The SW Bricktown Fiesta is scheduled for 5 to 11 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 26, in SW Bricktown Park, 301 W. First Ave., Hutchinson.