Tippecanoe Latino Festival canceled amid ICE raids in Indianapolis

LAFAYETTE, IN — After U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement raids in Indianapolis resulted in several detainments this week, the Latino Center for Wellness and Education announced it has made the decision to cancel the upcoming Tippecanoe Latino Festival here next weekend.

The free annual event, previously scheduled for Sept. 12 in Columbian Park, offers live music, Latino cultural performances, local vendors and food. But in a social media post Friday, the board of directors for the Latino Center for Wellness and Education said they've decided to cancel the 2026 event after "careful consideration and extensive discussion."

"The Tippecanoe Latino Festival has long been a celebration of Latino culture, community and togetherness. We know how much this event means to our community, and this decision was not made lightly," the Facebook post said. "In recent days we have been closely monitoring developments affecting Latino communities and families across Indiana. These circumstances have led us to carefully consider what is best for our community and everyone who helps make this event possible."

ICE officers have been spotted in many areas of Indianapolis over the past week, with several documented detainments and arrests made on Wednesday .

Latino Center for Wellness and Education officials said the safety and well-being of the Latino community, the event's participating partners, volunteers and attendees remain the organization's priorities.

"While we may not be gathering for the festival this year, our commitment to our community remains stronger than ever," the announcement said. "We will continue to share resources and find ways to support, connect with and uplift our communities. Thank you for standing with us and with our community."

Attempts to contact a representative for the Latino Center for Wellness and Education were not immediately successful. Local police officials said Friday they have had no reports of ICE activity in Tippecanoe County.

On the Latino Center for Wellness and Education's website, the organization said it hopes to see everyone again in 2027.

Jillian Ellison is a reporter for the Journal & Courier. She can be reached via email at jellison@usatodayco.com.

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Journal & Courier: Tippecanoe Latino Festival canceled amid ICE raids in Indianapolis