Raul Juarez, 33, got to 26th Street early Sunday to secure a spot for his family and the many friends joining him at the afternoon’s 54th annual Mexican Independence Day Parade in Little Village.

Juarez lives near the parade route and attends every year. He said it was important to be loud and proud of his heritage for his children. And to their delight, Juarez’s daughters — ages 6, 7 and 9 — had their eyes on the gummy worms from Dulcelandia.

“It’s crucial we show we’re not afraid and that we’re willing to stand together,” Juarez said. “Nobody wants a fight, but it’s good to show we’re a united force and that we are not going to lie down on our backs and take abuse. … This parade is so much more than just a celebration for the neighborhood.”

He was among thousands who turned out Sunday

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