On February 3, 2025, thousands of businesses across the United States closed their doors in a show of support for “A Day Without Immigrants.” This movement, aimed at highlighting the crucial role immigrants play in the economy, has gained momentum since similar protests in the past, echoing the voices of countless individuals who contribute to the nation in various ways but feel threatened by recent policies. Businesses in cities from Chicago to Minnesota joined forces, emphasizing unity in the face of challenges posed to immigrant communities.
SOUTH ST. PAUL, Minnesota
Michelandia Bar and Grill in South St. Paul is one of the many establishments participating in this nationwide event. The restaurant’s manager, Alejandro Morales, discussed how fears surrounding immigration enforcement have affected customer attendance. He stated that both undocumented and legally documented immigrants are feeling the pressure to stay away from public spaces, thus significantly impacting local businesses. By closing their doors, Michelandia aims to send a strong message of solidarity with the local Latin community, which has been disproportionately impacted by recent immigration policies.
CHICAGO AREA TAKES A STAND
In the Chicago area, many businesses joined the protest by shutting down operations on this significant day. The closure serves to underline the profound economic contributions immigrants make to local economies. From cafes to retail shops, the sentiment is clear: immigrant workers and students alike are an essential part of the community. Protesters gathered to express their concerns, with many echoing similar sentiments seen in protests from 2017 after an increase in enforcement activities.
- Perkolator Café & Roastery donated 50% of their sales for the day to support immigrant initiatives.
- El Nuevo Vallarta, Route 66 Auto Service, and several other businesses also closed in solidarity.
- Local bakeries such as Three Tarts and La Michoacana respected the day by shutting their doors.
THE VOICES OF THE WINDOW COMMUNITY
Protesters like Ana Cacatci express the importance of supporting immigrant communities, saying, “Every closure means we stand united. Our livelihoods are intertwined with those of immigrant workers who help our economy thrive.” The reluctance to participate or shop on this day pushes a wider conversation about the rights and recognition of immigrant workers.
A MOVEMENT ROOTED IN HISTORY
This isn’t the first time the nation has seen an outpouring of support for immigrant rights in this manner. The current event has its roots in protests held back in 2017, where similar calls for solidarity were made amid rising anti-immigrant sentiments. Historically, these events have played a crucial role in shining a light on the valuable contributions made by immigrant communities across the country.
NUMBERS THAT SPEAK
Approximately 8.3 million undocumented immigrants are an integral part of the U.S. workforce, representing over 5% of working individuals in the nation. This statistic reveals how important immigrant labor is to diverse industries and how their absence would be deeply felt. With the movement gaining traction, it is becoming increasingly clear that the fight for immigrant rights is not just a local concern but a national imperative.
| City | Business Closures | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| South St. Paul, MN | Michelandia Bar and Grill | Spreading awareness among locals |
| Chicago, IL | ||
| Chicago, IL | Perkolator Café & Roastery | Donated 50% of sales |
As we observe “A Day Without Immigrants,” the conversations ignited by these closures remind us of the strength, resilience, and essential contributions of immigrants to not only our economy but also our communities. These collective efforts promote solidarity, encouraging people to recognize and appreciate the diverse tapestry that makes the United States a vibrant society.