Fear of Immigration Authorities Impacts North Carolina Entrepreneur
For Beatriz Vasquez, launching a business was intended to represent a fresh start. However, the reality of navigating immigration concerns has altered her path. The Durham resident reflected on her experience, expressing her surprise at the challenges that have arisen.
As a single mother and immigrant, Vasquez began her venture, the Phoenix Family Food Truck, in November. Yet, she finds her business and many others grappling with the repercussions of significant changes in U.S. immigration enforcement enacted in 2025.
“I’m not the only one,” Vasquez noted, highlighting the struggles within her community. “Many other businesses are closing as well. Our community wasn’t there.”
Local organizations serving the Latino community are witnessing these challenges firsthand. Mariana Rocha Golberg, the citizen resource center coordinator at El Centro Hispano, noted a marked shift in 2025 that instilled fear and caused a decline in participation in their programs.
As one of the largest Latino community organizations in the Triangle region, El Centro Hispano NC emphasized the urgent need for expanded legal support services in response to rising demand.
“Even if people don’t come to us, they still require assistance, so it’s critical for us to reach them where they are,” Rocha Golberg explained.
The fear of detention has led many in the community to remain indoors. According to a survey conducted by the community group El Pueblo, which gathered responses from over 1,000 Latinos, a significant number reported avoiding everyday activities out of concern for being identified as immigrants.
Alarmingly, nearly 40% of respondents indicated they have refrained from outings with their families, while 27% have stopped participating in community events like gatherings and festivals. Moreover, the findings reveal that over 40% of respondents feel that fear inhibits them from seeking help or reporting abuse. Specifically, 23% admitted to avoiding assistance, and 20% expressed reluctance to report instances of abuse.
While Republican leaders assert that current enforcement measures prioritize public safety and target dangerous individuals, this perspective remains contentious. North Carolina House Speaker Destin Hall commented on the discussion surrounding crime rates, arguing that the absence of undocumented individuals would eliminate related concerns entirely.
For entrepreneurs like Vasquez, the focus is on community contribution rather than crime. She emphasizes her commitment to supporting her family and enhancing her community through her business, rather than posing any threat.
Oriana Torre, a graduate of the University of Florida’s School of Journalism, brings a robust background in reporting, producing, and anchoring for both English and Spanish media. With a passion for community-centered narratives, she delves into critical issues surrounding immigration and politics.
