EAST LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Los Angeles County Chair Pro Tem and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis issued the following statement on the 79th annual Mexican Independence Day Parade held in East Los Angeles:

“Today, I am proud to join the community in celebrating the 79th Annual East Los Angeles Mexican Independence Day Parade and Festival — a cherished tradition that honors our deep cultural roots and brings together thousands of residents in the heart of East LA.

Thanks to my motion last year, Los Angeles County is participating in this event in an unprecedented way. For the first time, 27 County departments are investing approximately $50,000 and are on-site to connect directly with the community and provide essential resources and services. From workforce and veterans’ programs to public safety, youth development, and mental health services, County staff are here to support, uplift, and empower our residents.

Participating departments include:
Aging and Disabilities; Alternate Public Defender; Assessor; Beaches and Harbors; Chief Executive Office; Child Support Services; Children and Family Services; Consumer and Business Affairs; Economic Opportunity; Executive Office of the Board of Supervisors; Fire; Human Resources; Internal Services (including Delete the Divide); Justice, Care, and Opportunities; Library; Medical Examiner; Mental Health; Military and Veterans Affairs; Parks and Recreation; Probation; Public Defender; Public Social Services; Public Works; Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk; Sheriff; Treasurer and Tax Collector; and Youth Development.

I am especially proud that departments are also conducting on-site interviews for internships and employment programs that can lead to long-term careers in public service. This level of outreach would not have been possible without the coordination of the Department of Human Resources and the financial support facilitated by the Chief Executive Office. I am grateful for their leadership and collaboration.

With community icons like astronaut José M. Hernández serving as this year’s Grand Marshal, and with the incredible turnout we’re seeing today, this celebration is not only about honoring our heritage. It is about investing in our future.”