Elected officials and community leaders in northern Orange County gathered on Monday to address the negative impact of Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids on local industries. The tourism, hospitality, and construction sectors are experiencing significant disruptions due to these enforcement activities.
Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, speaking at a press conference outside Buena Park City Hall, stated, “These raids have not made us safer, they’ve made us more afraid.” She emphasized that the raids have removed parents from homes, workers from job sites, and children from classrooms, creating fear and disrupting the local economy.
North Orange County Chamber of Commerce President Andrew Gregson highlighted the immediate challenges faced by businesses, including labor shortages and revenue loss. The region, which relies heavily on immigrant labor, is seeing a significant impact, with undocumented workers playing a critical role in various sectors. According to data prepared by USC Sociology Professor Jody Agius Vallejo, these workers contribute approximately $425 million in state and local taxes annually…