LA Businesses Close as ICE Raids Increase, Causing Community Fear and Solidarity

On a typical day, Angel’s Tijuana Tacos in Los Angeles buzzes with activity, where workers hand-make tortillas and prepare fresh meat in front of an open flame, serving some of the city’s best tacos at a rapid pace. However, recent days have seen the taco stands and trucks shut down unexpectedly, leaving only one brick-and-mortar location open in nearby Orange County. This comes amid ongoing ICE raids targeting immigrant communities in LA, prompting many local businesses to close, alter hours, or take measures to protect staff and customers from federal immigration enforcement.

“There’s widespread terror against immigrants. There’s also astonishing solidarity.”

In neighborhoods on the east side, street vendors, usually selling clothing and food, have disappeared. Schools are bringing students inside earlier, and playgrounds are empty—departures from the usual lively atmosphere. Even everyday scenes like the clanging of street vendors’ bells are missing, replaced by silence. Workers at local grocery stores arrive masked and guarded, and community events like Father’s Day barbecues and music festivals are canceled or subdued.

LA’s heavily Latino and immigrant communities are experiencing a chilling effect. Many taco stands have temporarily closed, with reports of ICE raids, such as one on Jason’s Tacos in East LA, where both the vendors and customers were detained. MacArthur Park and the downtown produce market, rely heavily on immigrant workers, are eerily quiet, with produce rotting because fear prevents customers from shopping. Domestic violence shelters report a drop in service utilization as clients avoid seeking help out of concern for their safety.

Community efforts have emerged to support those most affected. Organizations like World Harvest Charities and the YMCA distribute essentials and organize help for families afraid to leave their homes. Legal groups and local nonprofits have set up hotlines and fundraisers to assist immigrant families, while initiatives like KTown For All are buying out vendors’ stalls to ensure their safety and financial stability.

Thankfully, Angel’s Tijuana Tacos has begun reopening several locations, thanks to community support. Their message of gratitude reflects the resilience and unity of the community during this difficult time.