Several Las Vegas businesses closed their doors on Friday in observance of the “ICE Out of Everywhere National Day of Action,” a nationwide demonstration opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The closures follow the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good and reflect broader opposition to ICE’s policies and practices.
Businesses Take a Stand
Shelly Herrera-White, owner of Neon Desert Vintage, stated the decision to close was difficult, but “felt like the right thing to do.” Herrera-White, who identifies as Indigenous, explained her reasoning, stating, “The way I was raised, as a native, this is stolen land. There are no illegal immigrants on native land.” Her storefront, located at 1403 S. Commerce St., is family-run.
Carissa Beasley, owner of LV Plant Collective, described the decision to close as “easy,” despite the financial risk. Beasley, who never takes a day off, acknowledged the closure was “detrimental” but felt it was important to “stand in solidarity” with those affected by ICE’s actions. Her business, located in Fergusons Downtown, was among several in the area to participate.
Fresa’s Skate Shop and Tofu Tees, also located in Fergusons Downtown, joined LV Plant Collective in closing for the day. Other participating businesses included Blaspheme Boutique, Yukon Pizza, Afterlife Boba, Mojave Bloom Nursery, and Mary’s Cakes.
Backlash and Support
LV Plant Collective and Yukon Pizza experienced a negative reaction online, becoming targets of “review bombing” – a coordinated effort to leave negative reviews. LV Plant Collective also received a death threat on Friday morning. Yelp temporarily halted posting on Yukon Pizza’s page due to the influx of negative reviews.
A Different Approach
Noel Hurst, owner of Republic Goods, announced on Instagram that her consignment store at 1310 S. Main St. would remain open. Hurst explained she had an “obligation to local vendors and local sellers” and did not want to disrupt their income. She emphasized this decision did not signify agreement with the issues at hand, but a commitment to her business partners.
Hurst allowed her employees to participate in the protest without repercussions and stated some booth holders were donating proceeds to the Minnesota Freedom Fund. She expressed openness to customers regardless of their views on the protest, even welcoming those who simply wanted a “free hug” and to “pet a cute dog.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted these businesses to close?
The businesses closed in solidarity with the “ICE Out of Everywhere National Day of Action,” a nationwide demonstration opposing Immigration and Customs Enforcement following the deaths of Alex Pretti and Renee Good.
What was the reaction to LV Plant Collective’s decision to close?
LV Plant Collective received negative reviews on Yelp and a death threat via Instagram after announcing its closure.
Why did Republic Goods choose to remain open?
Noel Hurst, the owner of Republic Goods, stated she had an obligation to her local vendors and sellers and did not want to disrupt their income.
As businesses navigate the complexities of social and political activism, it remains to be seen whether this demonstration will inspire further action or if other businesses will feel empowered to take similar stands in the future.
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