'Day Without Immigrants' Protests Being Held Across US, Including Philly
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — What started as a social media campaign calling for immigrant workers to walk off the job has materialized in South Philadelphia.
There are signs on businesses reminding patrons why they're closed. Dozens of stores, restaurants and other places are shut down across South Philadelphia in solidarity with A Day Without Immigrants.
Philly Businesses To Close For 'Day Without Immigrants' Protest
Ben Fuentes, an American citizen originally from Mexico, closed his tattoo shop to show his support.
"I guess it was spur of the moment decision, to support everybody," said Fuentes. I didn't know it was happening until yesterday.
The workforce behind these mom and pop businesses is striking for one day - demonstrating opposition to President Donald Trump administration's well-publicized position of a crackdown on illegal immigrants and undocumented workers.
They're also voicing displeasure on other items that the president made hallmarks of his campaign - namely efforts to build a wall.
Business owner Christine Martinez said a day like this pinpoints the importance of immigrant labor.
"It's nice to see the solidarity that's happening," said Martinez. "Immigrants are the backbone of the construction industry, the restaurant industry.
Immigrants Nationwide Plan To Walk Off Job To Prove Point To Trump
Demonstrations took place in cities across the country.
Hundreds marched to the White House in response to Trump's immigration policies.
Demonstrators said they wanted to show how important their community is to the American economy and American culture.
The businesses will be open again on Friday.