Local Latino Businesses in Phoenix Struggle Amid Immigration Crackdown

Categories: Arizona Business NewsArizona State News

Community members shop at the Latino Marketplace in Phoenix amid ongoing immigration challenges.

News Summary

In Phoenix, Latino businesses are facing significant challenges amid heightened immigration enforcement. With fears of ICE raids causing reduced foot traffic, many business owners report sharp declines in sales. This economic distress not only impacts individual entrepreneurs but also poses a broader threat to the community’s economic vitality. As opposition to these policies grows, local small businesses are calling for community solidarity and renewed support to navigate these turbulent times.

Local Latino Businesses in Phoenix Struggle Amid Immigration Crackdown

Phoenix, a city celebrated for its diverse culture and vibrant communities, is currently witnessing a troubling trend where local Latino businesses are feeling the pinch of an ongoing immigration crackdown. With one of the largest populations of Latino residents in the state, the ramifications of recent policies are being felt deeply in commercial venues, particularly in areas like Maryvale, which is known for its bustling marketplace and strong community ties.

A Home for Latino Entrepreneurs

In the heart of the Phoenix Marketplace, small business owners are navigating stormy waters. Take Mauricio Quiroz, who runs a small store that specializes in soccer jerseys and shorts. Previously, Quiroz’s business enjoyed healthy sales ranging from $300 to $400 on weekdays, and even soared to about $800 on weekends. Since the onset of President Trump’s strict immigration policies, sales have tumbled to just $200-$300 on Saturdays, and $350-$400 on Sundays. Families who once flocked to his store are now staying indoors, gripped by the fear of potential ICE arrests.

The Ripple Effect

This isn’t just Quiroz’s story; a dozen other small business owners from the Phoenix Marketplace are reporting similar trends, with many attributing their declining sales to an overall climate of fear. Residents are choosing to save their money, anxious about the uncertainty surrounding immigration arrests. This anxiety only intensified after a recent incident where ICE agents apprehended an immigrant at his home, sending shockwaves through the community.

Impact on Local Economy

Without a doubt, the implications of these policies stretch beyond just individual shops. The Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has highlighted the economic costs, stating that misinformation is having a devastating effect on local businesses. Daily, business owners are contacting the Chamber, worried about their workers who might not show up for fear of being stopped on their way to work. In 2022 alone, immigrants without legal status made significant contributions to Arizona’s economy, generating around $422 million in sales and excise taxes, which is a noteworthy 2.3% of the total state revenue.

A Struggling Marketplace

The Phoenix Marketplace, home to approximately 100 small businesses, boasts that nearly 80% of its residents identify as Latino according to the latest census data. However, with the current tensions, many store owners are feeling the effects. For instance, Liliana Aguirre, a beauty salon owner, recently faced an entire day with minimal to no customers. The current circumstances have forced Aguirre to turn to her savings, demonstrating just how dire the situation has become.

Heavy Losses Leading to Layoffs

Other business owners are reporting similar tales of woe. Omar Pacheco, Sr., who operates a jewelry store called Joyeria Phoenix, saw his layaway sales nosedive from 30 to just 10 during the Valentine’s Day season, equating to a jaw-dropping 40% drop in overall sales. Gonzalo Avila, who sells traditional clothing, has also taken a hard hit, with his customer count plummeting from around 70 a day to fewer than 20. It can’t get any worse than having days where no sales are made at all.

Seeking Community Solidarity

Events like this have caused not just economic distress, but raised flags in the community about unity and support. Recent protests against the immigrant crackdown have filled the streets of Phoenix, with community members calling out for a united front against mass deportations. The shift in sentiment highlights the importance of support within both immigrant communities and among U.S.-born citizens alike.

As Phoenix navigates through these turbulent times, one thing is clear: the spine of local economy is deeply intertwined with the community’s immigrant families. The future for small businesses in the area hangs in the balance, with many hoping for a change in the atmosphere that will allow them to thrive once more.