In a display of solidarity, several small enterprises throughout the city are joining a nationwide walkout opposing federal immigration enforcement, manifesting particularly in Minneapolis and other urban centers across the country.
Essential Insights
Cindy Cortez, proprietor of Newtown HQ—a pop culture gift boutique in Astoria—reveals that this marks the inaugural occasion her establishment has taken part in a national protest.
The decision, she acknowledges, was not made lightly. Originally from Los Angeles, Cortez relocated to Queens at the tender age of six, hailing from a Mexican lineage.
Her shop features artwork created by immigrants, serving as a tribute to the rich cultural tapestry of the borough. Despite being a U.S. citizen—and with her parents residing in the city lawfully—Cortez confesses to concerns regarding her safety and that of her community.
She asserts that participating in the strike represents her commitment to supporting marginalized communities, including immigrants.
Newtown HQ, a pop culture gift destination in Astoria, Queens, exemplifies the small business participation in this pivotal demonstration.
“Everyone associated with our store—myself, my team—we essentially become the targets,” remarked Cortez, underscoring the personal stakes involved.
Reflecting on her store’s initial foray into activism, which began five years prior, Cortez noted that the choice to join the nationwide protests was fraught with difficulty.
“It was a strenuous decision. We are a small business, and each day significantly impacts our survival,” she emphasized.
On a recent Friday, her team guided NY1 through the typically bustling shop, which now stood eerily quiet.
In an emblematic act of protest, a Mexican flag hangs prominently over the front entrance.
Cortez’s roots are deeply embedded in the rich cultural soil of Queens, as she noted that many of the artworks sold in her store originate from immigrants, both locally and nationally. “Our offerings reflect the borough’s splendid diversity,” she expressed.
“We showcase artistry from many backgrounds—Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, as well as Asian and Korean—celebrating the eclectic essence of Queens,” she elaborated.
Even as a U.S. citizen with legally residing parents, Cortez conveyed a palpable fear for her own welfare and that of those in her vicinity.
The strike embodies her resolve to advocate for vulnerable demographics, especially the immigrant populace.
“I feel fatigued and weighed down by the ongoing turmoil. It fills us with sadness and fear, not only for ourselves but for our families who are under siege,” she lamented.
Cortez affirmed her commitment to compensate her small team of four for the day’s pay, underscoring her belief that community solidarity outweighs financial considerations.
“Witnessing community members face displacement feels far more consequential than mere financial loss,” she stated.
Although her shop will reopen on Saturday, Cortez is prepared to engage in further strikes, emphasizing her intent to send a clear message opposing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and express unwavering support for immigrant New Yorkers.
Source link: Ny1.com.
