In Minneapolis, the Taste of East Africa restaurant is experiencing significant drops in patronage as federal immigration enforcement actions escalate. Owner Hibaq Nimale reports that while she and a few others continue to serve food, most of their loyal customers, primarily from the Somali community, are too fearful to visit. The surge in ICE operations has led to heightened anxiety, leaving many immigrants and residents on edge.
Many businesses in areas with high immigrant populations are suffering from decreased foot traffic and reduced sales, with estimates of up to an 80% drop in revenue reported by some. Vigilante protests against the federal immigration activities have further discouraged patrons, raising substantial concerns about the ongoing economic viability of these establishments.
The economic impacts of the enforcement are broad, affecting not just restaurants but also hotels and other service industries. Leaders cited in recent reports indicate that even white-collar businesses are seeing disruptions as employees struggle with childcare and other support systems disrupted by the climate of fear.
Local activists have called for boycotts and organized events aimed at pressuring the government to reconsider its enforcement actions, highlighting the role of economic protest as a strategy to combat unfavorable federal policies.
As Nimale reflects on the situation, she expresses gratitude for support from non-immigrant neighbors, which has provided some relief, though it is unclear how long this support will sustain the business amidst ongoing fears and the potential for lasting economic damage.
