ICE Fears Empty Minneapolis Streets: Businesses Close as Community Hides

A climate of fear has left parts of Minneapolis unusually quiet. Businesses are closed and shopping malls are empty because many residents are afraid to leave their homes. The fear stems from possible arrests by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. President Donald Trump has repeatedly targeted the Somali community. This has caused particular alarm within Minneapolis's large Somali population. Local shops and restaurants that depend on community traffic now report a severe loss of customers. Many business owners have chosen to shut their doors entirely until the perceived threat passes. The situation shows how immigration enforcement actions can impact local economies. When people are too afraid to shop or work, entire business districts can stall.