On Monday, businesses across the country, including here in Omaha, will participate in “A Day Without Immigrants.” Its purpose is to raise awareness about the important role immigrants play in the US workforce.
Gabriel Gonzalez has run his authentic Hispanic bakery for more than 20 years. Gonzalez stated that he devotes the majority of his energy to his shop, which includes treats and coffee.
“It’s in our bones. “My parents founded this bakery,” said Gonzalez, International Bakery’s owner.
But, on Monday, International Bakery was one of many businesses that closed. He explained that he and other businesses oppose President Trump’s immigration policies. He stated that more should be done to keep immigrant workers safe.
“Immigrants contribute significantly to this country. Unfortunately, I don’t believe a day is enough to convey this message,” he said.
Other business owners, such as Jose Palomares, said they had spent the entire day watching people try to enter their market. He said that despite his efforts to raise awareness, he is losing thousands of dollars in revenue.
“I think we’re all just trying to stay together and fight for our rights and that’s it,” says Palomares.
According to the American Immigration Council, immigrants account for 8.5% of the Nebraska labor force.
In 2017, both Gonzalez and Palomares’ businesses took part in “A Day Without Immigrants.” They stated that they didn’t expect to be in this position again eight years later.
Now they’re hoping for a solution.
“I think this time can be different if people step up,” Gonzalez said.
The business owners expressed their hope that a day like Monday will send a message to leaders, recognizing the contributions that everyone makes to the workplace.
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