Taste of East African, a Minneapolis restaurant, is facing severe struggles as both staff and patrons are afraid to visit due to a federal immigration enforcement crackdown. Owner Hibaq Nimale reports that only she and the owner currently operate the establishment, while regular customers are hesitant to even enter. The heightened atmosphere of fear has also led gig workers to refrain from accepting delivery orders, complicating the restaurant's operational capabilities.
Even if you tell ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) you’re a citizen they won’t listen, so everyone is scared, said Nimale, a U.S. citizen who grew up as a refugee from Somalia. Reports indicate similar disruptions across Minneapolis as the local community reacts to the sweeping actions taken under Trump's administration, with businesses, from restaurants to hotels, reporting significant impacts including cancellation of events and reduced hours.
The stakes have escalated: a lawsuit was filed by the state of Minnesota and the Twin Cities, highlighting a 80% drop in sales for some businesses. The Minneapolis Federal Reserve found a noticeable downturn even before the immigration actions commenced, with foot traffic suffering as community fears took root. Overall, an alarming 20% of surveyed businesses reported lower employment regarding safety concerns.
The economic landscape remains tenuous as protests continue to disrupt business, with major chains like Hilton grappling with public relations dilemmas following cancellations linked to law enforcement staff. Nimale expresses gratitude for support from neighbors but worries whether such goodwill can last. We don’t know how long we can get support, she said. This ongoing crisis encapsulates a crossroads faced not just by individual businesses but the community and economy as a whole.
