FORT VALLEY, Ga. — While many cities across the country have canceled or postponed Mexican Independence Day celebrations this year amid heightened immigration enforcement, Fort Valley is moving forward with its annual festival.

Enrique Fuentes said the event is a vital opportunity to honor heritage and bring people together.

“When it comes to the Mexican community, we have a very big Mexican community in Fort Valley,” Fuentes said. “I think it’s important that they understand how we celebrate our heritage. For them to open this space to the community speaks volumes.”

The festival, now in its fourth year, will take place Friday, Sept. 12, featuring traditional Mexican food, live music, dancers, and cultural ceremonies including the quinceañera — a celebration of a young woman’s transit

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