A recent raid by federal agents at Ambiance Apparel in downtown Los Angeles has left the Fashion District in a state of fear and uncertainty. On June 6, the raid led to the detention of dozens of individuals, causing a significant drop in business activity in the area. Local shop owners reported that their sales plummeted by around 50% in the days following the raid.
The Fashion District, known for its vibrant mix of retail and wholesale businesses, has seen a marked decline in foot traffic. Many stores were shuttered, and those that remained open struggled to attract customers. A rumor circulated that additional raids were planned, further amplifying the anxiety among business owners and workers.
Adnan Akram, owner of I Heart Fashion, shared that his store saw a drastic drop in customers, with activity down by half compared to a typical Saturday. Other business owners echoed his sentiments, expressing concern about the long-term impact of these raids on their livelihoods. Crystal Torres, who runs Bijoux Bijoux, voiced her worries about supporting her family amid the downturn.
The Fashion District is home to over 4,000 businesses and employs around 15,000 people, many of whom are immigrants. The recent raid has not only affected sales but also raised fears about safety and security among workers. Some businesses have temporarily closed or sent employees home as a precaution.
The Business Improvement District for the Fashion District reported a 33% drop in visitors since the raid, with Santee Alley seeing a 50% decline. This decline has prompted calls for community support, urging people to shop locally to help those affected.
Economist Christopher Thornberg noted that the apparel industry in Los Angeles has been struggling for some time, largely due to high operational costs. He emphasized that the presence of undocumented workers is integral to the local economy, and the raids are likely to do more harm than good.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of the raid, many are left wondering what the future holds for the Fashion District and its immigrant workforce. The atmosphere remains tense, with business owners and employees hoping for a return to normalcy, but fearing further actions from federal agents.