In downtown Los Angeles, protests have been ongoing for six days, significantly affecting local businesses and the daily lives of residents. The demonstrations are centered around the Metropolitan Detention Center, where many people have gathered to voice their concerns about immigration policies and recent ICE raids.
Roberto Recinos, a 21-year-old who works at a nearby boba shop, has felt the impact firsthand. He noted a drastic drop in sales, stating that his store usually sells about 120 drinks by 2 p.m., but recently, they barely sold 40. "It’s been dead," he said, reflecting on the lack of foot traffic due to the protests and the curfew imposed in the area.
The protests have been mostly peaceful, but there have been instances of clashes with police and vandalism. The curfew, which has been enforced to maintain order, has caused local businesses to adjust their hours. Recinos mentioned that his shop now closes at 7:30 p.m. instead of the usual 10 p.m. to ensure everyone can get home before the curfew. He expressed mixed feelings about the situation, supporting the cause of the protests but also feeling the strain on his livelihood.
Many business owners share similar sentiments. Ken, a sales associate at a knickknack store in Little Tokyo, has seen a decline in customers. He stated that while he supports the protests, the vandalism that has occurred is concerning. His store typically closes at 6 p.m. but has been closing early due to the unrest. He remarked, "I don’t care for the people who come at night who do the vandalizing. They’re just vandalizing because they’re upset."
The protests have also raised fears among residents, particularly those with immigrant backgrounds. Recinos, who comes from a family of documented immigrants, mentioned that even though he is documented, he feels the need to be cautious when going outside during these times. He shared that his mother worries about him getting detained, highlighting the tensions that many feel in the community.
As the protests continue, citizens like Uribe Lazo, who lives in South Los Angeles, have chosen to observe from a distance. He expressed understanding for both the protesters and law enforcement, noting that the curfew seemed to help control the situation. Lazo, who has worked in immigration law, empathizes with the struggles of those seeking a better life.
The ongoing protests reflect broader issues surrounding immigration and public safety in Los Angeles, with many residents caught in the middle. As businesses adapt and community members navigate their daily lives amidst the unrest, the situation remains fluid, with no clear resolution in sight.