Manuel Perez Jr. Plaza

Dedicated in 1981 by American Legion Post 1017 and Mayor Jane Byrne, the plaza commemorates Chicago-born Medal of Honor recipient Private First Class Manuel Pérez Jr. The CDOT-owned grounds remain a neighborhood focus, with the Little Village Chamber of Commerce and SSA #25 steering community programming and lighting improvements. It also anchors seasonal traditions, serving as the starting point for the annual El Grito 5K on the morning of the Mexican Independence Day Parade and hosting a holiday tree lighting in December.