Campaign Launched to Revive Immigrant-Owned Businesses Amid Crisis

A new campaign has been initiated to support immigrant-owned businesses and neighborhood shops severely affected by a recent surge in federal immigration enforcement actions. The initiative, titled “Shop Local, Stand Together,” aims to bolster local economies in areas like St. Paul, Minnesota, where many businesses have reported significant declines in sales.

Julian Ocampo, who operates a chain of Mexican-American restaurants in the Minneapolis area, closed all eight of his establishments on January 7 due to plummeting sales and staffing issues. The closures followed an increase in actions by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which left both customers and employees anxious about potential detentions.

On February 3, 2026, Ocampo announced that five of his restaurants would reopen, though some will offer take-out only and restrict access to screen customers. The Los Ocampo location on Arcade Street in St. Paul, situated in an area heavily monitored by ICE, will remain closed for the foreseeable future. Ocampo expressed concern for smaller, family-owned businesses, stating, “They’re hurting bad.”

The climate of fear extends beyond non-citizens. According to St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her, even naturalized citizens are hesitant to leave their homes, fearing they lack the necessary language skills to avoid detainment. Many immigrant businesses have reported losses of 60% or more in sales, with some closing entirely or adopting strict security measures to screen visitors.

Taqueria El Charrito, a well-loved restaurant in St. Paul, has also faced significant challenges. A GoFundMe campaign created by a loyal customer highlights the restaurant’s role as a community hub and its contributions to local employment and cultural connection. The campaign emphasizes how missing even a single paycheck can lead to severe financial instability for workers.

In response to the economic crisis, over 1,000 chefs and restaurant owners have signed an open letter to Congress urging an end to Operation Metro Surge and calling for reforms in ICE operations. U.S. Senator Tina Smith delivered the letter to the Senate, representing the collective concerns of the affected businesses.

Shop Local, Stand Together Campaign

Faced with mounting financial pressures, many immigrant-owned establishments have turned to community support. The “Shop Local, Stand Together” campaign, spearheaded by state officials, seeks to encourage residents to patronize local businesses, particularly those owned by immigrants. Governor Tim Walz has designated February as “Shop Local” month to promote this initiative.

The governor’s proclamation underscores the importance of supporting local businesses as a means of community investment. “Supporting local, small, and immigrant-owned businesses is an act of community support and an investment in the dignity, stability, and vitality of our neighborhoods,” the proclamation states.

In addition, the Minneapolis Foundation has established an Economic Response Fund, allocating an initial $4 million for grants aimed at supporting impacted small businesses in St. Paul and Minneapolis. The fund, which may expand over time, is backed by 28 Minnesota companies, including major organizations like Allianz and General Mills. Grants will be distributed through community organizations, with further details to be announced.

Community Response and Future Outlook

On January 29, Mayor Her, DEED Commissioner Matt Varilek, and Minneapolis Foundation President R.T. Rybak met with representatives from various ethnic restaurants and markets to discuss the challenges faced by immigrant entrepreneurs. The meeting emphasized how these businesses, often reliant on family and ethnic networks, play a crucial role in maintaining the economic fabric of local neighborhoods.

The economic crisis triggered by Operation Metro Surge is likened to a localized earthquake, with some businesses devastated while others remain unaffected. Ocampo noted the broader implications of such actions, stating, “The pandemic… affected the whole world. Now, it’s based on skin color and accent.”

Despite the difficulties, some business owners sense a glimmer of hope. After a month-long closure, one of the Los Ocampo locations is preparing to reopen. Yet, challenges remain, as Ocampo pointed out the ongoing struggles for many small businesses in the community.

As the campaign to revitalize immigrant-owned businesses gains traction, local leaders continue to advocate for policies that promote stability and security for all residents, highlighting the importance of community solidarity in overcoming these challenges.