As Los Angeles County, a region with more than 3.5 million immigrants, continues to grapple with ongoing immigration enforcement operations, some neighborhoods may be more vulnerable than others to ICE activity, according to a new report.
The ZIP code 91402, which covers Panorama city, Mission Hills and North Hills, is most impacted. Other vulnerable neighborhoods include the city of Bell, Pico Rivera, Southeast Los Angeles, downtown Los Angeles, according to the immigration enforcement vulnerability index released by Los Angeles County.
These communities typically have higher shares of foreign-born residents, renters and Spanish-speaking households.
The increased immigration activity has a negative impact on local businesses, including a reduction in foot traffic.
Carmen Salazar, who owns Flowers and Perfumes in Panorama City, said her business is struggling to get by since widespread enforcement operations began last June.
“Customers are afraid, and that’s why they don’t want to come,” Salazar said. “(For) Valentine’s Day, we don’t have no orders after this event. I don’t know when the next because we’re not making money.”
Shoppers also told NBC Los Angeles that they think twice about leaving home, but sometimes they are left with no choice.
“I’m scared, but I have to go. I have to work,” said Dora Cazares.
The report suggests that LA policymakers expand emergency business grants and financing programs for local businesses that are trying to stay afloat amid the dwindling customer base.
Also because some immigrant workers are afraid to leave home and show up to work, there should be support to address workforce shortages and employment assistance, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity and Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation.
The report also recommends that the county establish better communication between agencies and business communities about enforcement impacts and available support.