News Summary

La Unica Super Center in Greenville, SC, closed on February 3rd in solidarity with the nationwide protest ‘A Day Without Immigrants,’ highlighting the essential economic contributions of immigrants. Local businesses participated to emphasize unity and the vital role of immigrants in the local economy, amidst rising tensions over immigration policies. The event showcased community resilience and the collective voice of immigrant workers.

Greenville Backs a Movement with La Unica Super Center Closure

In a bold move, La Unica Super Center, located at 6119 White Horse Road in Greenville, SC, announced its closure on February 3rd to show solidarity with a nationwide protest known as ‘A Day Without Immigrants.’ This initiative is all about shining a spotlight on the invaluable economic contributions made by immigrants amidst distressing immigration policies and rhetoric that have surfaced in recent years.

The Heart of the Matter

The protest, affectionately dubbed “Un día sin Hispanos” (A Day Without Hispanics), encourages immigrant-owned businesses to shut their doors as a way of showcasing their crucial role in the economy. It is a collective effort where communities across South Carolina—and beyond—joined in by temporarily closing down shops, schools, and businesses in order to demonstrate just how reliant the nation is on immigrant contributions.

What’s at Stake?

Statistics paint a telling picture: as of 2023, the U.S. Department of Labor estimated that there are approximately 30.9 million foreign-born workers in the U.S., representing around 19% of the labor force. This significant presence includes a colorful array of individuals ranging from those legally residing in the country, to refugees and students, as well as individuals living here without documentation. Immigrants are deeply entrenched in sectors like hospitality, construction, and even the arts, forming the backbone of many industries.

Data from the American Immigration Council revealed that immigrants wield a stunning $1.6 trillion in spending power across the United States. Their contributions to the economy aren’t just sizable; they’re also vital, helping support businesses and generating job growth in various communities.

Local Participation and Unity

La Unica Super Center galvanized a community response that saw numerous businesses participating in this day of action. Well-known spots like Ramirez Services, Linda’s Tienda Mexicana, Rincon Chiapaneco, Mariscaria Nayarit, Taqueria Pinula, and Los 2 Delfines all took part. This collective closure was seen not just as a protest, but as a unifying gesture to communicate the essential role of immigrant labor within the local economy.

Perhaps the most touching aspect of this movement is the sense of community it brings. Around 6.8% of South Carolina’s labor force is comprised of immigrants, contributing billions to the state’s economy. Furthermore, statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that almost 22% of the service industry’s workforce is foreign-born. These numbers underscore why the voices of immigrants are so crucial in the ongoing discussion about national policy.

Rising Tensions and Community Resilience

As President Trump’s administration has focused on heightened immigration enforcement, the atmosphere has become tense. The Governor of South Carolina has openly endorsed strategies aimed at removing undocumented immigrants perceived as threats. With an estimated 88,000 undocumented individuals living in South Carolina alongside around 273,000 foreign-born residents as of 2022, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Community members have urged calm and understanding in light of the uncertainty regarding immigration policies and enforcement. Professors and activists have rallied around the message of inclusion, highlighting how integral immigrants are to local workforce sectors that rely heavily on their labor.

What started as a grassroots initiative through social media quickly transformed into a powerful statement showcasing how critical immigrant contributions are to the lifeblood of cities like Greenville. This movement reminds us all that, while laws and policies may shift, the fabric of our communities remains woven together tightly by the rich contributions of each individual—regardless of their immigration status.

Concluding Thoughts

As La Unica Super Center closed its doors that day, it was about more than just the business; it was a stand for a cause that resonates with many. The collective action taken by the businesses not only showcased their unity but also served as a reminder to all of us regarding the profound impact immigrants have in every corner of the nation. While the future may feel uncertain, the spirit of community and resilience shines brightly in Greenville and beyond.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Post and Courier: South Carolina Immigrant Businesses Day Without Immigrants
• WITN: Businesses Close Nationwide for Day Without Immigrants
• Greenville Online: Trump Deportation Plan Concerns
• Your Erie: Restaurants Close for Day Without Immigrants
• ABC11: Changes Announced Around Sensitive Locations