Fear Grips Minneapolis as Businesses Shut Down Amid ICE Patrol Fears
In a chilling display of fear and uncertainty, businesses in Minneapolis have been forced to shut down due to concerns over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) patrols. The city's Somali community, in particular, has been targeted by these fears, with many business owners choosing to stay closed rather than risk being arrested or harassed by federal agents.Businesses Remain Closed as Fears of ICE Patrols Persist
The streets of Minneapolis are usually bustling with activity, but the Karmel Mall in south Minneapolis is a stark exception. On a recent afternoon, rows of businesses stood shuttered, their normally noisy hallways eerily quiet. The smell of fried food wafted from bakeries, and the central heating hummed along, but many sellers sat alone in their clothing stores, waiting for customers that never came.
Fear is Universal, Says Business Owners
Everyone is afraid of federal immigration agents, business owners said. Sellers and customers alike, citizens and non-citizens, are all caught up in the fear. Some don't even bother opening shop because they're not expecting any customers.
A History of Targeting: The Somali Community's Fears
The fears of ICE patrols are not new to Minneapolis' Somali community. They have repeatedly been targeted by US President Donald Trump, who has made no secret of his hardline stance on immigration. Business owners and residents alike remember the protests that erupted in 2019 after an ICE officer killed a woman during an immigration crackdown.
The situation in Minneapolis highlights the deep-seated fears and mistrust that exist between law enforcement agencies and immigrant communities. As the city struggles to come to terms with these issues, one thing is clear: the impact on local businesses and residents will be felt for a long time to come.
