Businesses in Delaware and across the country closed their doors last Monday as part of a nationwide protest of the Trump administration's immigration policy. A Day Without Immigrants is designed to amplify the economic power of immigrants as workers, business owners, and consumers.
Local Delaware restaurants, including Victors Tacos, El Vaquero, and Mi Cerrito closed their doors in support of the protest. Participants are urging others in the Latino community to stay home, not work, and not shop. The friendly protest follows the recent executive orders on immigration put in place by the current President, as well as growing fears of ongoing raids from ICE.
Bryce Smith, a Delaware local, shares his excitement for the community and touches on the importance of taking a stand.
“I am proud to see our little town supporting a much bigger issue. That is how you get the ball rolling: you get more people to speak up, you use your voice for those who can’t, you support those who support you… I mean, who doesn't love a margarita?”
Though the protest has led to some disruption, it has also sparked important conversations around the table. Community members, customers, and supporters have taken to social media to express solidarity, with many sharing stories about their own connections to immigrant communities and further spreading the word.
A manager of a local restaurant, who wished to remain anonymous, shares how real the fear is for the community.
“If they say they are going after criminals, why are they going to restaurants, grocery stores, and schools? We stand with our staff and believe they deserve to work without fear. There are a lot of good people here trying to provide for their families and children.”
An employee of the same business who also wished to remain anonymous describes the frustration felt.
“I hope everyone realizes what it's like without an immigrant. We are the hidden backbone of this country, and no one wants to appreciate that. If we’re mute, we’re in silence, then they’re going to do whatever they want."
The protest comes at a time of heightened concern over immigration policies, with many businesses and workers fearing the potential impact of stricter regulations and threatened deportations. The event aims to emphasize how immigrant workers, often in industries like agriculture, food service, construction, and hospitality, are essential to the economy and daily life in our country.
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