On Monday, a variety of businesses across the United States, ranging from daycares to grocery stores and hair salons, closed in a loosely organized protest against President Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Dubbed a “day without immigrants,” the protest underscored the significant role immigrant workers play in local economies.
Despite the intent behind the day of action, many employees and business owners expressed the pressing need for income in light of fears surrounding rumored immigration raids. This apprehension often leads immigrant communities to avoid going out, impacting their participation in such protests. The sentiment of needing to work was echoed by Noel Xavier, organizing director for the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters, who highlighted that many workers felt they could not afford to take a day off.
Jaime di Paulo, president of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, noted that while smaller businesses in dense Latino neighborhoods in Chicago participated in the closure, larger employers and various sectors continued operating. This highlighted the dilemma faced by many in the community, as protest actions might further impact their economy.
In Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, Andrea Toro decided to close her hair salon, noting the psychological effect on children who are increasingly missing school due to fears stemming from the new administration’s policies. She emphasized the critical importance of immigrant contributions to local economies, asserting that without them, the community would struggle.
St. Paul’s El Burrito Mercado, which previously participated in the 2017 protest, remained open lightly staffed this year due to concerns over lost income and neighborhood access to essential services. Similarly, the Spanish-immersion daycare provider Tierra Encantada operated but experienced a significant drop in attendance, as many families opted to keep their children home in solidarity.
In Utah, Latino-owned businesses similarly shut their doors, with state Senator Luz Escamilla emphasizing the importance of compassion in raising awareness of the fears many face due to current immigration policies. In contrast, Republican Senate President Stuart Adams defended the administration’s stance, stating immigrants who abide by the law should not live in fear.
This protest and its varying participation highlight the complexities and challenges immigrant communities navigate in the current political climate. In navigating these difficult times, communities continue to express their solidarity and raise awareness about the value immigrant workers bring to society.
Ultimately, the “day without immigrants” aimed not just for visibility but to foster dialogue on the contributions of immigrants, emphasizing hope that better understanding and policies can be achieved in the future.