U.S. Businesses Shut Down in Support of Immigrant Workforce
United States, Tuesday, 4 February 2025.
Several U.S. businesses closed for the ‘Day Without Immigrants’ protest, emphasizing their dependence on immigrant workers amidst ongoing debates over President Trump’s immigration policies.
Nationwide Business Closures and Protests
On February 1-2, 2025, hundreds of businesses across the United States participated in the ‘Day Without Immigrants’ protest, with particularly strong showings in major cities [1][2]. In Minneapolis-St. Paul alone, between 350 and 400 Latino-owned businesses shut their doors [3]. The demonstrations emerged as a direct response to President Trump’s recent immigration enforcement policies, which took effect following his return to the White House in January 2025 [6].
Economic Impact and Community Response
The protests highlighted the significant role of immigrants in the U.S. economy, with undocumented immigrants alone comprising over 5% of the American workforce [3]. In Philadelphia, business owners like Juan Andres Placencia of Braza’s BBQ Chicken closed their establishments, stating that ‘the immigration population is part of the backbone of the economy’ [2]. The protests coincided with increased ICE enforcement activities, including a raid in Philadelphia’s Juniata Park that resulted in seven detentions [2].
Legal Support and Community Protection
In response to growing concerns, community organizations have mobilized to provide legal assistance. In Minneapolis, Colonial Market helped process over 500 Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA) legal forms [3]. This surge in legal preparations reflects widespread anxiety within immigrant communities, with business owners reporting that even legal residents are experiencing fear [3]. The National Immigrant Justice Center has announced legal clinics and training events scheduled for February 11, 2025, to provide additional support [6].
Protest Impact and Future Implications
The demonstrations led to significant disruptions in major cities, with Los Angeles experiencing temporary freeway closures and traffic disruptions near the 101 Freeway [4]. While some businesses felt compelled to remain open due to financial concerns [1], others, like Casa Vallarta in Aurora, chose to close despite potential losses, with owner Rafael stating, ‘I’ll certainly lose money… it’s worth it’ [5]. The protests have sparked ongoing discussions about immigration reform, with both supporters and critics voicing their perspectives on the current administration’s policies.