San Antonio, the city of musicians losing its mariachis to Trump’s immigration policies
At least five members of the community have been detained by ICE. Musicians fear that when they head out to perform, their traditional attire could make them targets for immigration agents
San Antonio, Texas, is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly its mariachi tradition. In 1970, educator Belle Ortiz started a mariachi training program in a local public school, which later expanded to middle schools, high schools and universities throughout the state. Alongside her husband, they founded the renowned mariachi ensemble Campanas de América, which performed for five U.S. presidents at the White House.
This rich cultural heritage faced a threat due to U.S. President Donald Trump's immigration policies and cooperation between local and federal authorities in detaining migrants. The city's mariachi musicians have been disproportionately affected, with at least five arrests in recent months. Violinist and singer Brenda Smith, who performed with a mariachi group that disbanded after two members were detained and another deported, expressed her concern over the situation, feeling isolated as the only member left free.
Hebert Ibarra, a 20-year-old mariachi musician, was detained on June 25 while driving home after a performance. He was later released on bond but remains in detention due to an asylum hearing. Reny Colina, the band's trumpeter and singer, has been held at the South Texas ICE Processing Center since August 10. Despite his pending removal proceedings, Colina will receive due process.
Both Smith and San Antonio's mariachi community have rallied to lobby lawmakers, including Congressman Joaquín Castro, to advocate for the release of their fellow musicians. The arrests have raised concerns among mariachi musicians about their safety, as their traditional charro suits make them easily identifiable to immigration agents.
Written by urgent.news from El Pais English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
