Fear grips Aurora as immigrant communities react to ICE concerns

In Aurora, Colorado, businesses are feeling the impacts of growing fears surrounding immigration raids. Specifically, the marketplace located at Colfax Avenue and Chambers Road, known as La Plaza Colorado, has reported a notable decline in clientele. Business owner Doug McMurrain revealed that many community members are hesitant to visit due to fears of harassment or detention by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). This reluctance has created a noticeable drop in visitors, compounded by a wider atmosphere of uncertainty affecting local immigrant families. Giovanna Escatel, a new business owner at La Plaza, expressed concern over the atmosphere as she worries about the potential repercussions of recent actions against the immigrant community. Escatel recently opened GZ's Flower Shop and reflected on how fears of children potentially not seeing their parents again have affected their attendance at school. She also highlighted the importance of having immigration lawyers on-site to assist those seeking help in navigating these challenging times. Despite these challenges, La Plaza strives to remain a resource for anyone with questions regarding their immigration status, offering assistance without any charge. Doug McMurrain emphasized the critical nature of providing support during these times, stating, "It's a scary time for a lot of people, and having an attorney and the right documents in place are so important." He stresses that their establishment is not a threat, and calls for community support amidst these tumultuous times. Additionally, the wider climate of anxiety has led some businesses, such as Casa Vallarta, to take a stand. This establishment plans to close in solidarity with the national protest known as "A Day Without Immigrants", which aims to raise awareness about the significant contributions immigrants make to society. Daniela Hernandez Javalera, the daughter of Casa Vallarta's owner, conveyed pride in her family's business and emphasized the importance of standing against anti-immigrant sentiments. She expressed hope that their actions would encourage dialogue about the essential roles immigrants play in their communities, affirming their need for support and unity to weather these trying conditions.