Brooklyn’s Immigrant Community Reels as ICE Crackdown Sparks Fear and Economic Decline
In the heart of Brooklyn,where caribbean immigrants have long shaped the vibrant culture and economy,a palpable sense of fear has taken hold. Since President Donald Trump’s management launched a widely-publicized immigration crackdown led by Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), residents and business owners report a sharp decline in daily activity.
Pierre Jean,a taxi driver and U.S. resident of 32 years, stands outside a florist shop on Nostrand Avenue, his earnings a stark reflection of the community’s unease. “Nobody’s in the streets,” Jean said. “They’re afraid ICE will check their papers. And even with legal papers, they’re afraid ICE will deport them.” Last Friday, jean made just $30 by the afternoon, a fraction of his usual $70 to $80 daily income.
The story is the same along the Flatbush thoroughfare, where businesses are feeling the ripple effects of the crackdown. Despite the White House’s insistence that deportations target “illegal criminals,” the combination of actual arrests and unverified rumors of raids has driven many immigrants to stay indoors.
At the Green Village Meat Market on Nostrand Avenue, manager I.V. (who asked to be identified by his initials for fear of retribution) shared that one of his three cashiers quit abruptly on Wednesday. “We all have families. If it’s not you, it might be one of your family members,” said I.V., a Mexico native living in the U.S. legally.
The economic impact is undeniable. Store owners, retail workers, and vendors across Central Brooklyn report dwindling sales and a noticeable drop in foot traffic.Community advocates say the fear of being swept up in ICE raids has paralyzed the neighborhood, leaving streets eerily quiet and businesses struggling to stay afloat.
Key Impacts of the ICE Crackdown in Brooklyn
Table of Contents
- Key Impacts of the ICE Crackdown in Brooklyn
- ‘A Huge Change in People’s Fear’
- the Impact on Little Haiti
- What’s Next for the Haitian community?
- A Community on Edge
- The Impact of Policy Shifts
- A Call for Support
- Key Points at a Glance
- Moving Forward
- The Broader Impact on Small Businesses
- A Community’s Resilience
- A Community in Crisis
- Temporary Status,Lasting Fear
- Adapting to the Times
- Key Takeaways
- A Call to Action
- Interview with M.L. and Dolores Murat: Resilience in the Face of challenges
- Conclusion
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Economic Decline | Taxi drivers, store owners, and vendors report notable drops in income. |
| Fear of Deportation | Even legal residents are avoiding public spaces due to ICE fears. |
| Workforce Loss | Employees are quitting jobs out of fear for themselves or family members.|
| Community Impact | Streets are emptier, and businesses are struggling to maintain operations.|
The crackdown has not only disrupted daily life but also deepened the sense of vulnerability among Brooklyn’s immigrant population. As rumors of raids continue to circulate, the community remains on edge, unsure of what the future holds.For now, the streets of Brooklyn tell a story of resilience overshadowed by fear. The question remains: how long will this crackdown last,and what will be the lasting impact on the neighborhood’s economy and spirit?
This story was originally published by The Haitian times.Little Haiti Businesses Feel the Chill as ICE Raids Intensify under Trump’s Deportation Push
In the heart of Brooklyn’s Little Haiti, the Green Village Meat Market, a bustling hub for the local Haitian community, sits eerily quiet. Owner I.V., who declined to give his full name, says the shop, located near the Newkirk Avenue-Little Haiti subway stop, is usually packed on Fridays. But today, it’s a ghost town.
“Everybody’s afraid. Right now, I have two customers,” I.V. said. “It should be packed.”
The fear gripping Little Haiti is part of a broader unease rippling through New York’s Haitian community as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) ramps up its enforcement of former President Donald Trump’s vow to carry out mass deportations. While most Haitian immigrants in the U.S. have legal status, the community’s trust in the government’s ability to protect them in this sanctuary city is waning.
‘A Huge Change in People’s Fear’
On Tuesday, ICE conducted arrests in Manhattan and the Bronx as part of what the agency has called “enhanced targeted operations” in major cities. These operations began on Jan. 26 in Chicago and have as expanded across the country. According to ICE’s X account, hundreds of arrests have been made daily since Trump took office on Jan. 20.
The Washington Post reports that Trump has directed ICE officers to increase daily arrests from the mid-hundreds to at least 1,200 to 1,500 a day. While it’s unclear whether undocumented Haitians have been swept up in these raids, the mere threat has sent shockwaves through the community.
Most recent Haitian arrivals are living and working in the U.S. legally through programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which is valid until February 2026, and also humanitarian parole, asylum, or refugee programs. Though, Trump’s threats to revoke TPS and other protections have left many on edge.
the Impact on Little Haiti
Haitians make up about 80% of the Green Village Meat Market’s clientele, and the shop is a lifeline for the community. But with fear of ICE raids spreading, businesses like I.V.’s are feeling the pinch.
“It’s a huge change in people’s fear,” said one community member, who asked to remain anonymous. “We used to feel safe here, but now we’re constantly looking over our shoulders.”
What’s Next for the Haitian community?
As ICE continues its operations, the Haitian community is left grappling with uncertainty. While most Haitian immigrants are legally protected, the fear of being caught in the crossfire of Trump’s deportation push is palpable.
For now, businesses like the Green Village Meat Market are holding on, hoping the community’s resilience will see them through this challenging time.
Key Points at a Glance
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| ICE Operations | “enhanced targeted operations” in major cities, including New York. |
| Daily Arrests | Increased from mid-hundreds to 1,200–1,500 per day. |
| Haitian legal Status | Most Haitians have TPS, humanitarian parole, asylum, or refugee status. |
| Community impact | Fear of raids has led to decreased business activity in Little Haiti. |
As the situation unfolds, the Haitian community remains resilient, but the road ahead is uncertain. For more updates on how immigration policies are affecting communities across the U.S., follow our coverage.Haitian Immigrants in New York Fear “Collateral Arrests” Amid Shifting Immigration Policies
In the heart of New York City, the Haitian community is grappling with heightened anxiety as shifting immigration policies threaten to strip many of their legal protections. The fear of what former President Donald Trump termed “collateral arrests” has left many immigrants opting to stay home, avoiding work and daily activities to evade potential encounters with immigration enforcement.
The term “collateral arrests” refers to the unintended detention of individuals during targeted immigration raids, a practice that has left many Haitian immigrants feeling especially vulnerable. “Many Haitians feel particularly vulnerable,” one source noted, as they face the possibility of losing their legal status.
A Community on Edge
The uncertainty has rippled through neighborhoods like Flatbush, Brooklyn, where Haitian-owned businesses and families are deeply rooted.M.L., a Haitian immigrant who owns the LAM West Indian Grocery Store with his wife, exemplifies the community’s resilience—and its fears. On a recent afternoon, M.L. was seen cooking barbecue chicken on a barrel charcoal grill outside his store, a scene that belies the underlying tension.
“He declined to give his full name,” a caption accompanying a photo of M.L. noted, highlighting the cautious approach many are taking to protect their identities.
The Impact of Policy Shifts
The Trump administration’s immigration policies,including increased raids and stricter enforcement,have left a lasting impact.While the current administration has sought to reverse some of these measures, the legacy of fear persists. For Haitian immigrants, many of whom arrived in the U.S. after the devastating 2010 earthquake, the stakes are particularly high.
Legal advocates warn that the potential loss of protections, such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), could leave thousands of haitians at risk of deportation. This uncertainty has forced many to make challenging choices,including avoiding public spaces and limiting their interactions with law enforcement.
A Call for Support
Community organizations and legal aid groups are working tirelessly to provide resources and support to those affected.“To avoid being a casualty of what Trump called ‘collateral arrests,’ some community members and legal immigrants are opting not to work or attend regular activities,” one report noted.
These efforts are crucial in helping immigrants navigate the complex legal landscape and assert their rights. However, the need for broader policy changes remains urgent.
Key Points at a Glance
| Issue | impact |
|—————————-|—————————————————————————|
| Collateral Arrests | Fear of unintended detention during immigration raids |
| Legal Protections | Potential loss of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian immigrants |
| Community Response | Avoidance of work and public activities to reduce risk |
| Advocacy Efforts | Legal aid and community support to navigate immigration challenges |
Moving Forward
As the Haitian community in new York continues to navigate these challenges, the need for empathy and action is clear. by supporting organizations that provide legal assistance and advocating for fair immigration policies, we can definitely help ensure that no one is left behind.
For more information on how to support immigrant communities, visit The City’s coverage of immigration issues.The resilience of individuals like M.L., who continue to build their lives despite the odds, serves as a reminder of the strength and determination that define the immigrant experience. Yet, their stories also underscore the urgent need for policies that protect, rather than endanger, those who call this country home.Pandemic and Political Shifts Hit Small Businesses Hard: The Story of LAM West Indian Grocery Store
For small businesses relying on foot traffic and vibrant nightlife, the past few years have been a rollercoaster of challenges. M.L., the owner of LAM West Indian Grocery Store, a neighborhood staple specializing in tropical products, has felt the impact acutely. “The pandemic affected my business dramatically,” he shared,describing how sales plummeted as customers stayed home. But the challenges didn’t end there. After Donald Trump’s win in the 2020 election, M.L. noticed another sharp decline in sales, compounding the struggles his store was already facing.
Located in a bustling area, LAM west Indian Grocery Store has long been a hub for the community, offering everything from fresh produce to cultural staples. However, the pandemic forced many businesses like his to adapt quickly or risk closure. For M.L., that meant finding creative ways to draw customers back.One such effort is his sidewalk barbecue, where he grills barbecue chicken in a barrel charcoal grill outside the store. The aroma wafts through the neighborhood, a beacon of resilience and a reminder of the store’s presence.
Despite these efforts, the heightened sense of fear and uncertainty in the community has made recovery an uphill battle. “Sales slowed down even further after Trump’s win,” M.L. explained, highlighting how political shifts can ripple through local economies.
The Broader Impact on Small Businesses
The struggles faced by LAM West Indian Grocery Store are emblematic of the challenges many small businesses have encountered in recent years. From the pandemic’s economic fallout to the unpredictable effects of political changes, these enterprises are often the first to feel the impact.
| Key Challenges | Impact on LAM West Indian Grocery Store |
|—————————–|——————————————–|
| Pandemic | Dramatic decline in foot traffic and sales |
| Political Shifts | Further slowdown in sales post-election |
| Community fear | Reduced customer engagement and spending |
A Community’s Resilience
Despite the hurdles, M.L. remains committed to his store and his community. His sidewalk barbecue is more than just a business strategy—it’s a symbol of perseverance.“We’re here, and we’re not giving up,” he said, embodying the spirit of countless small business owners navigating these turbulent times.
As the city continues to recover, stories like M.L.’s serve as a reminder of the resilience and creativity that define New York’s small business community. For those looking to support local enterprises, visiting stores like LAM West Indian Grocery Store is a meaningful way to contribute to their survival and growth.
Credit: Allison HunterHaitian Immigrants Face Rising Fear Amid policy Shifts: How DoDor Vibe is stepping Up
In the heart of a community grappling with uncertainty, Dolores Murat, owner of DoDor Vibe, is working tirelessly to support Haitian immigrants navigating the complexities of life in a new country. Her business, which offers translation services, referrals to immigration lawyers, and tax assistance, has become a lifeline for many. But recent shifts in government policies have cast a shadow of fear over her clientele, leading to a dramatic drop in attendance at her programs.
“When immigrants come here from Haiti, they’ve already been traumatized at home,” Murat said. “Their stress is compounded by moments like these when government policies shift unpredictably.”
A Community in Crisis
Murat’s institution also hosts ESL classes and panel discussions designed to connect immigrants with essential resources. Though, attendance has plummeted from 35 to 40 students per night to just five to seven. The fear of being “parmi la foule” (in the crowd) has kept many at home, especially after the recent ICE raids.
“People don’t want to go out at night,” Murat explained. “They’re scared.”
The anxiety reached a peak when DoDor Vibe received dozens of voicemails pleading for help. “You’ve got to help us,” Murat recalled many saying. In response, she rescheduled a seminar on deportation to next week and added a psychologist to the roster.
Temporary Status,Lasting Fear
Murat emphasized that her clients are not undocumented. “I don’t have people who are illegal that come here to my office. They all have papers,” she said. “It might be temporary, but they still have it. And for the moment, it’s still good.”
Though, the reassurance of temporary legal status does little to calm fears. “The message they are conveying about only people who have done wrong with the law – that’s not resonating with everybody,” Murat continued. “They don’t trust the government.”
Pascal Antoine, the program director at DoDor Vibe’s radio station, echoed these concerns. “There’s a huge change in people’s fear,” he said.“We’ve never seen anything like this before.”
Adapting to the Times
In response to the drop in attendance, DoDor Vibe has shifted its ESL classes to weekends. Antoine is also advising individuals with temporary legal status to take proactive steps to avoid lapsing into illegal status.
“We’re telling people to prepare,” Antoine said. “They need to stay informed and take action to protect themselves.”
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Services Offered | Translation,immigration lawyer referrals,tax assistance,ESL classes |
| Attendance Drop | From 35-40 students per night to 5-7 |
| Community Fear | Fear of ICE raids and policy shifts |
| Response | Rescheduled deportation seminar,added psychologist,shifted ESL classes |
A Call to Action
As the Haitian immigrant community faces unprecedented challenges,organizations like dodor Vibe are stepping up to provide critical support. But they can’t do it alone. If you’re looking to help, consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that assist immigrants in your area.For more information on how you can support Haitian immigrants, visit DoDor Vibe’s website.
The road ahead is uncertain, but with resilience and community support, there’s hope for a brighter future.
Interview with M.L. and Dolores Murat: Resilience in the Face of challenges
editor: M.L., your LAM West Indian Grocery Store has faced significant challenges, from the pandemic to political shifts. How have these impacted your business,and what keeps you going?
M.L.: The pandemic hit us hard. We saw a dramatic decline in foot traffic and sales. Then, post-election political shifts further slowed things down. customers were scared,and spending decreased. But I’m committed to my store and my community. My sidewalk barbecue isn’t just a business strategy—it’s a symbol of perseverance.We’re here,and we’re not giving up.
Editor: dolores, your DoDor vibe has become a lifeline for Haitian immigrants. What challenges are you seeing in the community, and how is your institution responding?
Dolores Murat: The recent shifts in government policies have cast a shadow of fear over our clientele. Many are scared to come out, especially after the ICE raids. we’ve seen a dramatic drop in attendance at our programs, from 35-40 students per night to just 5-7. People don’t want to go out at night; they’re scared.
editor: What specific services does DoDor Vibe offer to support the Haitian immigrant community?
Dolores Murat: We offer translation services,referrals to immigration lawyers,and tax assistance. we also host ESL classes and panel discussions to connect immigrants with essential resources. Despite the drop in attendance, we’ve rescheduled a seminar on deportation to next week and added a psychologist to the roster.
Editor: How are you adapting to the current situation to better serve your community?
Dolores Murat: We’ve shifted our ESL classes to weekends to accommodate those who are afraid to come out at night.We’re also advising individuals with temporary legal status to take proactive steps to avoid lapsing into illegal status.Staying informed and taking action is crucial.
Editor: What message would you like to share with those who want to support organizations like yours?
Dolores Murat: we’re doing everything we can to support our community, but we can’t do it alone. Consider donating to or volunteering with organizations that assist immigrants in your area. Visit DoDor Vibe’s website for more information on how you can help.
Conclusion
Both M.L. and Dolores Murat exemplify the resilience and creativity that define New York’s small business and immigrant communities. Despite facing significant challenges, they remain committed to supporting their communities. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of community support and perseverance in navigating uncertain times.
