Immigration Raids Impact Businesses and Families in Los Angeles

• Immigration raids have instilled fear among immigrant workers, leading them to hide at work.
• Local businesses are suffering significant losses due to decreased foot traffic and sales.
• The emotional burden on immigrant families exacerbates anxiety and protests in cities.

This is reported by BBC, El País.

Impact of Raids on Immigrants

Recent immigration raids in California have caused significant concern among immigrant workers and the businesses that rely on them. In Oxnard, known for its strawberry production, workers are hiding in the fields for fear of arrest. Many of them are undocumented migrants working in agriculture, which makes up over 75% of the local workforce.

In the past week, immigration authorities conducted several raids, resulting in the detention of 35 individuals, which has triggered a wave of fear among immigrants. "We don’t want to leave our homes anymore. We are afraid we will be detained," says one worker who arrived from Mexico two years ago.

Impact on Small Businesses

The raids have also negatively affected local businesses. For instance, at Hector’s Mariscos restaurant, there has been a sharp decline in sales. The manager of the establishment notes that out of 7 tables that are usually filled, only 2 have customers. People are afraid to go out due to the presence of immigration agents.

Other entrepreneurs, such as café and shop owners, are also experiencing negative consequences. The owner of Casa Grande Cafe reported a 50% drop in customers, as many workers stay home out of fear of arrest.

Economic Consequences

The economy of California, especially in the agricultural sector, may suffer serious losses. The raids could lead to a labor shortage, which in turn will affect food supply across the country. Rancher Joe Del Bosque speaks about the potential consequences for the harvest: "These people are hard workers. They come to work, especially if they have families here or in Mexico."

Social Consequences

The raids also carry an emotional burden for immigrant families. Many of them experience fear and anxiety, causing them to avoid routine activities such as shopping or participating in community events. These events have sparked protests in various cities, including Chicago and New York.

Organizers of the protests believe that such raids only amplify fear in communities where immigrants are trying to find their place in society. "This is a real threat to those who are just trying to provide for their loved ones," activists note.

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