What's Happening?
Minneapolis booksellers, including DreamHaven Books and Comics and Comma: A Bookshop, have experienced a significant increase in sales following their involvement in protests against ICE (Immigration and Customs
Enforcement) and subsequent social media attention. Greg Ketter, owner of DreamHaven, became a social media sensation after a video of him during a protest went viral. This led to a surge in online orders, causing the store's website to crash and prompting a dormant GoFundMe campaign to receive over $5,000 in donations. Similarly, Victoria Ford, owner of Comma, gained national attention after her comment on a social media post about businesses opposing ICE went viral. Both stores have seen a high demand for books on topics like tyranny and the Constitution, leading to temporary closures to manage the influx of orders.
Why It's Important?
The surge in sales for these Minneapolis booksellers highlights the power of social media in amplifying local activism and its potential to impact small businesses positively. The increased attention and support reflect a broader societal engagement with issues surrounding immigration enforcement and civil liberties. For the booksellers, this moment represents not only a financial boon but also an opportunity to contribute to the national conversation on these critical issues. The situation underscores the role of independent bookstores as community hubs for resistance and education, particularly in politically charged times.
What's Next?
As the demand for politically themed books continues, these bookstores may need to adapt their operations to handle increased sales and maintain customer engagement. The ongoing protests and public discourse around ICE and immigration policies could sustain interest in related literature, potentially leading to further growth for these businesses. Additionally, the booksellers might explore collaborations with other local businesses and community organizations to expand their reach and impact. The situation also presents an opportunity for other independent bookstores to leverage social media to amplify their voices and causes.
