Increased ICE Presence Causes Decline in Oregon Latino Businesses

Latino-owned businesses in Oregon, such as the Carrasco family's restaurants honoring their Mexican heritage, are facing increasing challenges due to heightened presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, leading to threats, declining customers, and fear within communities. These pressures are echoed nationally, where President Donald Trump's strict immigration policies have created labor shortages in industries relying on immigrant workers, like agriculture and hospitality, negatively affecting the broader U.S. economy. ICE raids are also contributing to a decline in Latino entrepreneurial activity, which is significant given that Latino-owned businesses have been growing rapidly and are vital to economic innovation and job creation. Fear of ICE has caused workforce reductions and unpredictable consumer behavior, complicating operations for many businesses. Experts emphasize that Latino entrepreneurship is a key growth driver in the U.S., and disruptions due to immigration enforcement not only harm Latino communities but also the overall economic health of states and the nation. Business owners and advocacy groups are calling for policy changes to address these challenges and support immigrant workers who play essential roles in the economy.