As we walk down Pennsylvania Avenue together, Maria Patricia Corrales describes what Fiesta DC , the nation’s largest Hispanic festival, will look like in two weeks time. Corrales, the president of Fiesta DC, points to where a stage will be set up for the annual “Miss Fiesta” beauty pageant, and describes how the smell of frying pupusas will entice passersby. Even as she shares her excitement, she acknowledges that hosting Fiesta DC—this year on September 27 and 28—is a somewhat controversial choice, as other Hispanic festivals in the area have been cancelled.

“I know that [Fiesta DC] might be singled out. I’m risking it. I’m risking every single one that comes in,” Corrales says, referring to immigration agents who may show up. The festival, which usually draws thousands, comes at a t

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