Chicago Dance Students Attacked with Liquid in Alleged Racist Incident

Neighbors accused of throwing cups of unknown liquid at teenage dancers outside studio

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A Mexican folk dance group in Chicago, Ballet Folklorico de Chicago, experienced physical aggression and intimidation from their neighbors, who allegedly threw multiple cups filled with an unknown liquid at several people, including three teenagers. The dance instructor, Miriam Gomez, said this was not the first uncomfortable encounter with the neighbors, but this time it was unavoidable. The dancers say it was an act of racism, and the dance studio plans to continue holding classes and will not let the encounter disrupt their rhythm or purpose.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing tensions and allegations of racism in some Chicago neighborhoods, with minority community groups facing harassment and aggression from neighbors. It raises concerns about the safety of students and the ability of cultural organizations to operate freely without fear of attack.

The details

According to Chicago police, a 43-year-old woman and a 41-year-old man are accused of throwing multiple cups filled with an unknown liquid at several people, including three teenagers aged 13, 14 and 15, while making threats. The dance instructor, Miriam Gomez, said this was not the first uncomfortable encounter with the neighbors, but this time it was unavoidable as the group was leaving their studio around 10 p.m. after a practice session.

  • The incident occurred on Friday night outside the Ballet Folklorico de Chicago studio near Pulaski Road and Wellington Avenue.
  • The practice session ended around 10 p.m.

The players

Miriam Gomez

The dance instructor for Ballet Folklorico de Chicago, who said this was not the first uncomfortable encounter with the neighbors.

Gabriela Azueta

A dancer with Ballet Folklorico de Chicago for four years, who said the incident was an act of racism.

Ballet Folklorico de Chicago

A Mexican folk dance group that has been teaching dance to kids, teens and adults since 2018.

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What they’re saying

“This was an act of racism and it's unacceptable.”

— Gabriela Azueta, Dancer (WGN-TV)

What’s next

The dance studio says it plans to file a protective order and press charges against the neighbors.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by minority community groups in some Chicago neighborhoods, where they may encounter harassment, aggression and allegations of racism from neighbors. It underscores the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for cultural expression and the need for greater understanding and dialogue between different communities.