ICE Raids Impact Los Angeles Fashion District, Threatening Immigrant-Owned Dress Shops
A year after the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, the Los Angeles Fashion District, a hub for immigrant business owners, continues to feel the effects. Joel Galvez and his wife Leonor Torres, who own dress shops specializing in quinceañera and prom dresses, have seen a significant decline in sales. The raids, which targeted immigrant workers, led to a decrease in foot traffic and customer cancellations, severely impacting their business. The couple, who immigrated from El Salvador, are struggling to keep their stores afloat amidst rising debts and reduced sales. The raids have also affected related businesses, such as banquet halls and limousine services, further straining the local economy.