Customer after customer moved through the aisles Thursday at Holy Land Grocery and Deli in Minneapolis, filling carts with halal meats, dates and trays of syrup-soaked pastries ahead of Eid al-Fitr.
There were familiar patterns — families buying in bulk, shoppers comparing brands of rice and spices, last-minute additions tossed in near the register. But when it came to conversation, there was a noticeable restraint.
“Ask me again in a few days,” said Ahmed Hassan, 34, when asked about the recent immigration enforcement surge. He paused, allowing for a soft smile, then added, “Right now, we’re just trying to enjoy this” before returning his attention to a list on his phone…