Chicago Street Vendors Organize to Fight Harassment 

Street vendors of Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood document their daily struggle to a make a living in one of the United States’ most vibrant Mexican communities

Street vendors in Chicago were being constantly harassed by city officials. Their elotes, tamales, freshly-cut fruit were often seized, doused in bleach, and thrown in the dumpster. Fines of up to $500 were not uncommon.

In 1992, fed up with the city’s bully tactics, street vendors organized and formed theAsociación de Vendedores Ambulantes - Street Vendors Association, also known by its Spanish initials as the AVA.

The AVA has been asking to be regulated, but Chicago, unlike other major cities, does not issue licensing and permits to street vendors.

Brick-and-mortar businesses were often the most vocal in opposing the street vendors. But as those interviewed in this video mention, the eloteros, tamaleros, and other vendors bring increased foot traffic and a liveliness the streets that benefits all.

This video takes a look at the street vendors of the Little Village neighborhood, or “La Villita,” as its more commonly known by locals. La Villita is the largest Mexican neighborhood in the entire American Midwest. Centered around the 26th Street corridor, Little Village is also one of the largest Mexican communities in the United States; certainly, one of the most vibrant.

Little Village is often lauded by Chicago city officials for the millions in tax revenue this business district generates for its coffers. The AVA should be regulated within reason and allowed to work without the harassment of inspectors and other officials. Their hard work and long hours bring a countless number of visitors from throughout the region to the La Villita. The dignity of working in peace is the least they deserve.

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