Week of January 30 – February 4, 2025

Latino Businesses Close Nationwide for 'A Day Without Immigrants'

Across the U.S., Latino-owned businesses closed their doors Monday in a powerful demonstration of their economic impact. Dubbed "A Day Without Immigrants," the protest responded to the Trump administration's intensified deportation efforts.

In Minneapolis, many businesses along East Lake Street stood empty, with signs flipped off. Daniel Hernandez, owner of Colonial Market, was among the 350 to 400 Latino business owners in the Twin Cities participating in the movement. However, his store remained open—not for business, but to assist undocumented immigrants in preparing Delegation of Parental Authority (DOPA) forms. These legal documents ensure that children can be cared for by designated guardians if their parents face deportation.

"It's been very difficult," Hernandez said, noting that fear is widespread, even among those with legal status. His store helped families complete over 500 forms that day.

Nancy Peralta, a notary assisting with the documents, described the emotional toll on families. "We had a few people crying. They are very nervous," she said, reassuring them that the forms offer protection in uncertain times.

Restaurants also joined the movement, including Michelandia Bar and Grill in South St. Paul. Manager Alejandro Morales noted that fear of immigration raids has kept both undocumented and legal residents from dining out, significantly impacting business.

According to the Center for Migration Studies, 8.3 million undocumented immigrants contribute to over 5% of the U.S. workforce. Through this protest, Latino businesses sent a strong message about their vital role in the economy.

Trump Administration's Immigration Crackdown Sparks Nationwide Fear

In the early days of the Trump administration, immigration policies took center stage, with sweeping executive orders and enforcement actions causing widespread fear among immigrant communities. Within two weeks of taking office, President Trump signed at least ten immigration-related orders, focusing on mass deportations and border security.

One significant move was Mexico’s agreement to deploy 10,000 additional troops to its border to curb migrant crossings. Meanwhile, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem participated in an ICE raid in New York, one of many that led to 5,843 arrests nationwide in just six days. The administration claimed these operations targeted violent criminals, but concerns grew that others could be caught in the sweeps.

Additionally, the U.S. began using military planes for deportations and planned to reopen a detention center at Guantanamo Bay, where Trump stated 30,000 beds would be used for "criminal illegal aliens."

Trump also pushed for policy changes, including ending birthright citizenship for children of undocumented parents and expanding the authority to deport individuals accused of non-violent crimes under the newly signed Laken Riley Act. He also lifted restrictions on arrests in sensitive locations such as schools and churches.

In New York, Mayor Eric Adams supported ICE actions against criminals while pledging to protect immigrants. However, City Council members called for stronger protections. The NYPD clarified it would not assist in civil immigration enforcement but would cooperate in arresting violent offenders.

Trump's policies continue to fuel debates over immigration enforcement and sanctuary city protections.

February 4, 202 - Businesses close nationwide for ‘Day Without Immigrants’ protest

‘A Day Without Immigrants’ Protest Shuts Down Businesses Nationwide

Restaurants, grocery stores, and car dealerships across the U.S. closed their doors Monday as part of the “Day Without Immigrants” protest. The nationwide initiative aimed to highlight the economic and social contributions of immigrant communities while opposing stricter immigration enforcement policies.

The protest gained momentum after pro-immigrant organizations called for collective action to demonstrate the impact of immigrants on the U.S. economy. According to the nonprofit Latinos Unidos Siempre, the strike was a response to increasing immigration enforcement, which they argue creates fear and instability in communities.

Between Jan. 23 and Jan. 31, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported 8,276 arrests in operations targeting undocumented individuals, including those without a criminal record. These actions fueled concerns among immigrant communities, prompting many businesses to participate in the protest.

Jalisco Supermarket, a grocery chain in Georgia, announced on social media that it would close all seven of its locations in solidarity with the Hispanic community. In Painesville, Ohio—home to a large Hispanic population—many businesses also joined the movement.

By shutting down for the day, business owners sought to send a strong message about the essential role of immigrants in the U.S. workforce and economy. The protest underscored ongoing debates over immigration policies and enforcement, as well as the broader impact of immigrants on American society.

Advocates Push for Health Care and Unemployment Benefits for Undocumented Immigrants

More than 500 immigrant rights advocates marched to Washington’s state Capitol in Olympia on Thursday, rallying behind two legislative bills aimed at expanding safety net benefits for undocumented immigrants. The demonstration came amid heightened immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump’s administration.

The Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network, an advocacy group founded in 2016, organized the rally. Executive Director Brenda Rodriguez Lopez emphasized the group’s growing strength and preparedness to push for immigrant protections. The organization operates a deportation defense hotline, receiving over 400 calls daily, providing legal resources and know-your-rights information.

One key proposal, House Bill 1482, introduced by Rep. My-Linh Thai (D-Bellevue), seeks to expand health care coverage for undocumented individuals. While Washington previously extended Medicaid to some immigrants, limited funding capped enrollment. With 246,000 undocumented immigrants in the state—half of whom are uninsured and living below 200% of the federal poverty level—the bill aims to increase access.

The measure faces opposition from some Republican lawmakers, including Rep. Travis Couture (R-Allyn), who questioned using state funds for undocumented residents. However, Democrats argue that immigrants contribute through taxes and deserve basic rights.

Sen. Rebecca Saldaña (D-Seattle) is also sponsoring Senate Bill 5626, which would extend unemployment benefits to undocumented workers. Rep. Julio Cortes (D-Everett) announced a companion bill in the House.

Advocates vowed to continue organizing, regardless of federal policies, to build a more inclusive system for immigrant communities.

Thai’s bill has received criticism from Rep. Travis Couture, R-Allyn. He created a poll on the social media platform X to ask his followers whether Washington should fund a health care program for “illegal immigrants” or save that money for better access to health care for Washington citizens.

Democrats frame the tradeoffs differently.

“To those elected officials who say that state dollars cannot go to our immigrant and refugee community, I tell them, look around, they’re your neighbors,” said Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self, D-Mukilteo. “They pay taxes, they pay money, they contribute, and they deserve every single basic right that we have. We are not talking about status, we are talking about humanity.”

Meanwhile, Sen. Rebecca Saldaña, D-Seattle, is sponsoring Senate Bill 5626, which would expand unemployment insurance for immigrants without legal work authorization. At the rally, Rep. Julio Cortes, D-Everett, announced he was dropping a House companion bill.

“We truly are building a world that doesn’t exist for our people yet, but we are making progress, and so, no matter who’s president, our communities will continue to organize,” Rodriguez Lopez said.

Memphis Schools Bar ICE Agents from Classrooms Amid Immigration Concerns

Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) announced that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents will not be allowed into classrooms or given access to student records unless legally required. The district’s letter to parents aimed to reassure immigrant families amid growing fears of deportation.

Mauricio Calvo, CEO of Latino Memphis, praised the decision but lamented the need for such policies. “It’s super sad that we, as a community, need to be talking about this,” he said. However, Tennessee State Senator Brent Taylor warned that the policy could conflict with state law.

While Memphis has not yet experienced mass deportations, uncertainty looms. “There are rumors every single day that today is the day, tomorrow is the day,” Calvo said. MSCS hopes to ease those concerns by encouraging parents to continue sending their children to school regardless of immigration status.

However, newly passed state legislation could override MSCS’ decision. The bill, awaiting the governor’s signature, would require all elected and appointed officials to cooperate with immigration enforcement or face felony charges and removal from office. It would also establish a state immigration enforcement office and fund local law enforcement training on immigration-related issues.

Taylor emphasized the potential consequences of resisting the law. “I would encourage them to do some soul searching about how much they want to help illegal aliens,” he said.

For now, MSCS and some charter schools are standing by their commitment to protect students, but their policy’s future remains uncertain.

Philadelphia Leaders Unite to Defend Immigrant Rights Amid ICE Raids

Philadelphia city and state leaders are standing firm in support of immigrant communities as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) increases enforcement efforts. In a press conference at City Hall on Friday, officials sent a strong message to the White House: they will fight for immigrants' rights while ensuring the law is upheld.

State Senator Sharif Street (D-Philadelphia) acknowledged the fear among immigrant communities. “There are folks out there scared and concerned, and they want to hear from leadership,” he said.

Philadelphia City Council members, alongside District Attorney Larry Krasner, condemned any unlawful actions by ICE agents. Krasner issued a warning: “If you are inclined to use [immigrants] as your scapegoat, harm them, be cruel to them, you better do it within the law. If you don’t, try me!”

The outcry follows a recent ICE raid at a Juniata Park car wash, where seven individuals were taken into custody. Such incidents have led to an increase in calls to the Mexican Consulate in Philadelphia, with immigrants seeking legal guidance. Head Consul Carlos Obrador reassured the community, reminding them of their rights, including the right not to open the door if ICE agents lack a warrant.

City officials vowed to continue fighting for immigrant protections. Councilmember Nina Ahmad, herself an immigrant, emphasized, “I represent what is good about this country.”

With growing concerns over deportations, Philadelphia leaders remain committed to defending all residents, regardless of immigration status.

Fear and Hope: Students and Teachers Grapple with Immigration Uncertainty

At Santee Education Complex in Los Angeles, history and ethnic studies teacher Angelica Reyes witnesses firsthand the anxiety gripping her students as mass deportation fears intensify under the Trump administration. Following the election, Reyes asked her students to reflect on their emotions, revealing a deep uncertainty about their futures.

"I'm worried about my sister—and if my dad were to be deported—what would happen to her?" wrote one student. Another expressed concern over Trump’s promises to deport immigrants but found hope in resistance: "Something that gives me hope is that there's people fighting back."

For Reyes, an undocumented educator protected by the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, these fears hit close to home. She has seen rising distress in her community following U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) sightings, leaving many afraid to go to school or even buy groceries.

During the National Education Association’s “Home is Here” webinar in January 2025, educators and advocates addressed these challenges. The discussion highlighted Trump’s removal of policies that restricted ICE from enforcing immigration laws in schools, hospitals, and places of worship—previously considered safe spaces.

Despite these threats, Reyes emphasized the power of educators, families, and community leaders in shaping a better future. While fear persists, so does the fight to protect immigrant students and their families, proving that unity can challenge policies designed to divide.

Chicago Faces Economic and Social Fallout from Immigration Raids

Chicago has been on edge since the Trump administration launched “Operation Safeguard,” a mass deportation effort targeting sanctuary cities. The heightened immigration enforcement has generated widespread fear, forcing many undocumented immigrants to avoid work, school, and essential services.

“People are scared,” said Chicago resident Alvarez Vasquez. “They don’t even go to work because they’re afraid of being caught or deported.”

This fear extends beyond individuals, impacting Chicago’s economy. In 2023, undocumented immigrants made up nearly one-third of the workforce in key industries, including construction, hospitality, and landscaping. The American Immigration Council reports that 15.6% of the city’s construction workers and 13.5% of manufacturing employees were undocumented. Without them, entire sectors risk collapse.

Restaurants are already seeing a decline in business as both workers and customers stay home. “Even employees with legal status don’t want to be swept up,” said Rebecca Shi of the American Business Immigration Coalition.

The economic contribution of undocumented immigrants is significant. In 2023, they held $13.6 billion in spending power after paying $4.2 billion in taxes. They also make up 9.1% of Chicago’s entrepreneurs, further fueling job creation.

Despite claims that these raids enhance safety, studies show undocumented immigrants do not increase crime rates. Instead, the mass arrests threaten Chicago’s economy and deepen social divisions. As enforcement intensifies, businesses, workers, and communities brace for long-term consequences.

Immigrants in the Tri-State Area Face Uncertainty Amid Crackdown

As immigration enforcement intensifies under the Trump administration, many non-citizens live in fear of deportation. Enrique, an immigrant from Peru, is among them. He fled to New Jersey with his teenage son, Antonio, seeking a better future. While Antonio has a special juvenile visa allowing him to stay, Enrique faces the threat of deportation.

"I need him. He's my support, you know—he's my dad," Antonio said.

Veronica Cardenas, the family's attorney and a former ICE prosecutor, warns that Enrique’s deportation could happen any day. She describes a system prioritizing arrest quotas over due process, with the administration aiming to detain over 1,800 undocumented immigrants daily.

"Anytime they focus on numbers, you lose due process rights," Cardenas said.

Even non-citizens with no criminal records—including a military veteran—have been detained in recent raids. Cardenas urges immigrants to understand their rights, cautioning that ICE agents may use deceptive tactics to gain entry into homes.

"If ICE knocks, don’t open the door unless they have a warrant," she advised. "They can lie to you, saying there's been a robbery next door, just to get you to open up."

She emphasizes that immigrants should not answer questions about their identity or immigration status unless under arrest.

As enforcement escalates, legal advocates continue to educate non-citizens, stressing the importance of knowing their rights in an uncertain climate.

Germany's Election Campaign Focuses on Immigration Policy

As Germany heads into the final weeks of its election campaign, Friedrich Merz, the man likely to become the next chancellor, has made it clear that tightening immigration policies will be a central part of his agenda. Speaking to CNN after his Christian Democratic Union (CDU) party’s convention, Merz emphasized the need to “control [Germany’s] borders” and to deport migrants entering the country without proper documentation.

Merz, who leads the polls with his Union party coalition, comprising the CDU and their Bavarian sister party CSU, holds a commanding 30% share of voter support. His focus on migration has intensified in recent weeks, reflecting growing concerns among voters. Last week, he proposed two significant pieces of legislation aimed at reducing migration to Germany. Although one non-binding bill passed, a more restrictive "Influx Limitation Act" failed to gain sufficient support, even from members of his own party.

Merz has publicly stated that the legislation is essential, remarking that “the door to hell, we can still close together.” This rhetoric comes amid a backdrop of heightened security concerns in Germany, following a series of recent attacks carried out by migrants, which have pushed immigration to the forefront of national debate.

With the election nearing, Merz’s position on immigration aligns with a broader shift to the right in Germany’s political landscape, as voters express growing unease about migration's impact on the country’s security and social fabric.

Texas National Guard Deputized to Enforce Immigration Laws

In a significant escalation of the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement, the Texas National Guard has been granted new powers to act as immigration officers. This unprecedented move, part of the state's Operation Lone Star, allows soldiers to arrest and detain immigrants under the supervision of federal authorities, without additional training requirements.

Since 2021, thousands of Texas troops have been stationed along the U.S.-Mexico border, primarily in support roles, including installing barriers to deter immigrants. However, this new agreement, reached between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Texas military department, extends their authority to actions typically carried out by federal agents.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has fully backed this initiative, calling it a critical step in securing the border. "To support that mission, I have ordered Texas state agencies to assist the Trump administration with arresting, jailing, and deporting illegal immigrants," Abbott stated during his State of the State address.

This move follows a broader trend of military involvement in immigration enforcement, with recent deployments of active-duty troops and plans for a new migrant detention center. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently visited El Paso, emphasizing the importance of securing U.S. borders.

However, the decision has sparked concerns among legal experts and human rights advocates. Critics question the legality of deputizing state soldiers and worry about potential abuses of power, particularly with the lack of specific training for the troops involved. As the situation develops, the legal and ethical implications remain a significant point of debate.

Protest in Charlotte Demands Protection for Immigrant Families

As the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown intensifies, immigrant families across the country are feeling a rising sense of fear. In response, Charlotte saw a powerful demonstration on Saturday afternoon at First Ward Park, where supporters gathered to "Defend Immigrant Families."

The rally, led by the Party for Socialism and Liberation, drew passionate participants who chanted, “When immigrants are under attack, what do we do? Stand up, fight back.” Angel Orellana, a supporter of the protest, expressed concern about the potential long-term effects of the administration's policies. “When you try to kick more people out because they are not the type of people you want to associate with your country, it falls apart,” Orellana said, emphasizing the risk of becoming an "ethnostate."

Dana Alhasan, one of the event organizers, highlighted the emotional toll the policies have on immigrant families, particularly the separation of loved ones. She stressed the importance of unity in resisting the crackdown. “We are here to send a very strong message: that immigrants are welcome here, and we’re going to fight back against these attacks,” Alhasan stated.

The protest served as an expression of solidarity and a call for ongoing mobilization. On Sunday, the Party for Socialism and Liberation held an organizing meeting to further strategize on how to protect immigrant families and challenge the administration’s immigration agenda. The protest was a reminder of the strong community support immigrants have as they face uncertain futures.

"A Day Without Immigrants" Movement Hits Tallahassee and Quincy

On Monday, the "A Day Without Immigrants" movement made a significant impact in Tallahassee and Quincy as local businesses joined a nationwide protest to highlight the vital role immigrants play in communities. The movement, which called for "No School, No Work, and No Business," aimed to protest immigration crackdowns and deportation policies under the Trump administration.

Several local businesses showed their solidarity by closing their doors for the day. Mama's House, a Mexican food truck in Quincy, took to Facebook to announce its support, stating it would close "today, February 2, supporting our Latino Community." Though the food truck is usually closed on Mondays, it also shut down operations on Sunday in alignment with the protest.

Other restaurants, including Torero and The Bull Restaurant in Quincy, as well as Chiles and Chili food truck, also closed to show their solidarity. The closures made a noticeable impact on the local community, as members of the Tallahassee Foodies social media group shared their disappointment about having to find alternative dining options for the day, but also expressed their support for the participating businesses.

The movement served as a powerful reminder of the contributions immigrants make to the economy and society, while also calling attention to the harsh realities many immigrant families face under current immigration policies. Through their collective action, these local businesses helped amplify a message of unity, compassion, and support for immigrant communities.

Northwest Florida Joins “A Day Without Immigrants” Protest

Dozens of restaurateurs across Northwest Florida joined the nationwide “A Day Without Immigrants” protest on Monday, closing their businesses to oppose the Trump administration's immigration crackdown and deportation policies. The protest aims to emphasize the crucial role immigrants play in U.S. culture and the economy.

Grace Resendez McCaffery, owner of La Costa Latina newspaper, highlighted the widespread participation, with businesses from Mobile, Alabama, to Walton County closing their doors. "The point is to feel the impact that our immigrant community has in our community, in our country," McCaffery said. "It’s just acknowledgment that it is an immigrant community that feeds them."

In Pensacola, McCaffery organized a peaceful demonstration in support of local immigrant communities, which attracted hundreds of participants. The protest reflects growing concerns over President Trump's executive orders on immigration, which include efforts to end birthright citizenship and target undocumented immigrants for deportation. His policies have led to increased raids and arrests by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), with nearly 1,000 arrests reported daily.

The movement, which first gained momentum in 2017, has seen local businesses, particularly Mexican restaurants and taco trucks, close in solidarity. This day-long protest serves as a reminder of the vital contributions immigrants make to the workforce, with nearly 8.3 million undocumented immigrants estimated to be employed in the U.S., accounting for over 5% of the nation's workforce. As protests continue across the country, the movement underscores the impact of immigration policies on both local communities and the broader economy.

On Monday, a Democratic-controlled Senate committee in Virginia blocked several Republican-backed bills that sought to tighten immigration enforcement, citing concerns about their potential harm. The measures included proposals to expand immigration status checks in the juvenile justice system, mandate transfers of incarcerated individuals to federal authorities, and require immigration inquiries for public assistance applicants.

The Senate Courts of Justice Committee rejected SB 1268, a bill from Senator Tara Durant, which would have required the Virginia Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) to report individuals without legal status to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). While Durant argued that the bill was necessary to close gaps in the system, opponents, including the ACLU of Virginia, called it a “perversion” of the juvenile justice system. Critics emphasized that questioning juveniles about their immigration status could violate due process and exacerbate tensions with immigrant communities.

Additionally, SB 772, a proposal from Senator Glen Sturtevant, which would have mandated immigration status checks for individuals applying for public assistance, was also voted down. Democrats argued it would create unnecessary burdens for applicants and raise barriers to receiving benefits.

The committee further rejected SB 1141, which would have required the mandatory transfer of individuals with ICE detainers to federal authorities. Opponents contended it would overburden local law enforcement and undermine trust within immigrant communities.

Despite Republican efforts, the committee maintained its stance against the proposals, which Democrats deemed unnecessary, duplicative, and harmful to immigrant populations.