ICE Enforcement Fears Continue to Impact Latino-Owned Shopping Centers in Southern California
Latino-owned shopping centers in Southern California are experiencing a significant decline in business due to ongoing fears of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids. Despite a decrease in ICE arrests and detentions, the agency plans to increase deportations, aiming to remove 1 million people this fiscal year. This has led to a 10% to 15% drop in sales of non-essential goods, as customers limit their visits to quick trips for essentials like groceries and pharmacy items. Community events have also seen reduced attendance, as organizers attempt to maintain a low profile to avoid drawing attention. Business owners report difficulties in protecting tenants and reversing the economic damage caused by the enforcement actions. 
