ICE fears strain Somali businesses in Minneapolis
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Karmel Mall in south Minneapolis, a major economic and cultural hub for the U.S.'s largest Somali community, has seen many businesses shut down or experience a sharp decline in customers due to fear of federal immigration enforcement.
- The Trump administration's "Operation Metro Surge" immigration crackdown has heightened anxiety among both immigrants and citizens in the Somali community, leading to reduced business activity and reluctance to leave homes or travel.
- Somali business owners report significant financial losses, with some experiencing monthly declines of up to $20,000, and many employees too afraid to come to work amid fears of immigration raids.
- The crackdown follows President Trump's harsh rhetoric targeting the Somali community after a fraud case involving Somali defendants, contributing to widespread fear and stigmatization
