The A Day Without Immigrants boycott is scheduled for Monday, February 3rd, and will take place across the United States, including various businesses in Minnesota. This movement seeks to showcase the crucial role immigrants play in both the U.S. economy and local communities. Participants are encouraged to abstain from work, school, and shopping to emphasize this importance.
The initiative has gained traction on social media recently, prompting numerous businesses nationwide to close their doors in solidarity with immigrant populations. This demonstration occurs against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s ongoing efforts to tighten immigration policies during his first month back in office.
In Minnesota, several local businesses, including the Minneapolis restaurant Barbette, have announced they will close on Monday in support of this movement. Barbette’s social media post expressed their solidarity with Mexican and Latino communities, stating, “No work. No shopping. No participation. We recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of immigrant workers and communities.” The restaurant plans to resume normal operations on Tuesday, thanking patrons for their understanding.
La Costa Mexican Sports Bar and Grill also confirmed its closure on February 3rd, emphasizing their deep connection to the immigrant community. Their message highlighted, “This decision is deeply meaningful to us as a business founded by immigrants,” and called for hope and solidarity for meaningful immigration reform.
Book Club restaurant in Minneapolis joined the effort as well, stating, “We recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of immigrant workers and communities. Today, our doors remain closed as a sign of support and unity.” They, too, will reopen on Tuesday.
This protest mirrors a similar event that took place on February 16, 2017, which aimed to address President Trump’s immigration policies. On that day, numerous businesses closed as a statement against the proposed crackdowns on immigration.
In summary, A Day Without Immigrants is not just about closing businesses, but rather a powerful statement on the essential role that immigrants play in the workforce and the economy. It is a hopeful demonstration encouraging broader awareness and dialogue about immigration reform. This collective action reflects a strong unity among communities, emphasizing their contributions and the vital need for change.