Trump’s Deportation Threats: Fear and Anxiety in L.A. Hotels

Immigration Fears Grip Los Angeles Hospitality Industry Amid Enforcement Concerns

Los Angeles’s vital hospitality sector is on edge,grappling with anxieties over potential large-scale immigration enforcement actions. The industry,a cornerstone of the local economy,faces potential disruptions as workers and businesses brace for possible federal scrutiny.

Heightened Anxiety among Hotel Workers

In late February, rumors of planned immigration sweeps sent ripples of fear through the hotel workforce. Travis Gemoets, an attorney representing numerous Southern California hotels, noted a notable increase in absenteeism.”There was more absenteeism than you would normally expect,” Gemoets stated.”We have people who are afraid. That’s unfortunate.” This fear highlights the precarious situation many immigrant workers face, impacting their willingness to come to work and potentially destabilizing hotel operations.

Economic Impact and Labor Shortages

The hospitality and tourism industry is a major economic engine for Los Angeles,employing over 540,000 individuals and generating over $25 billion in annual visitor spending,according to the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board. Michael Clemens, an economist with the Peterson Institute for International Economics, estimates that about 10% of hospitality workers are unauthorized immigrants. Their contributions are essential, serving as “key ingredients” that support the entire industry.A sudden loss of this workforce would have cascading effects.A 2019 study by the Center for Migration Studies of New York found that mass deportations could reduce the U.S. GDP by as much as 2% due to labor shortages and decreased consumption [Citation: Center for Migration studies of New York, 2019].

“We have clear evidence that mass deportations will be generally disruptive to the economy and to the U.S. labor market — and specifically hospitality will be hard hit,” Clemens warned. “Their labor is a crucial factor of production, and it’s that production that generates other jobs in the sector. That’s something I wish everyone understood.”

Hotel Industry Prepares for Potential Audits

Hotels are proactively preparing for potential increased scrutiny. Many are consulting with legal counsel,organizing informational webinars,and educating managers on protocols to follow should immigration authorities appear. Some employers are conducting internal I-9 audits or hiring external firms to perform mock audits, ensuring compliance with employment eligibility verification requirements.

Concerns Over Enforcement Actions

While large-scale workplace raids have not yet materialized,the threat remains a real concern for hotel operators. “Anyone that declares [the Trump management’s] intentions are unfeasible or just bluster is fooling themselves,” Clemens cautioned, emphasizing the need for businesses to take the threat seriously.

jacob Monty, an immigration and employment lawyer advising chain restaurants, echoed these concerns. “The hysteria is worse than what’s happening on the ground, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have an effect,” Monty said, highlighting the psychological impact on workers and businesses alike.

Union Advocacy and Worker protections

Unite Here Local 11,the labor union representing many hotel workers,has been actively advocating for greater protections for immigrant employees. In late January,the union sent a letter backed by thousands of workers urging hotel owners to strengthen protections for immigrant workers,asylum seekers,and DACA recipients. Ada Briceño, co-president of Unite Here Local 11, emphasized the importance of employer support. “Workers are making a pledge to themselves to stand up for immigrant families during this tough time,” briceño said. “We need to tell employers that they’ve got to stand strong to protect the same people they’ve been leaning on to make a profit.” current union contracts include provisions prohibiting the use of E-Verify.

Hotel Owners’ Concerns

Ray Patel, president of the Northeast Los Angeles Hotel Owners Assn., expressed concern about the potential impact of immigration enforcement on both staff and guests. “The worry is having dozens of people in ICE jackets come into a hotel and spooking guests and workers,” Patel explained, referring to Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents. “We don’t want that to happen.”

Personal Impact on Workers

Dina Paredes, a housekeeper at the Alsace Hotel, shared her fears, despite having temporary protected status. “We felt safe to go out before, but not anymore,” Paredes said, highlighting the climate of fear gripping many immigrant communities. Emmanuel Cabrera,a bellman at the Westin bonaventure and a DACA recipient,is constantly monitoring social media for ICE activity reports. “People are scared right now,” Cabrera said, underscoring the widespread anxiety.

Navigating uncertainty: Resources and Support

For hotel owners and workers alike, navigating this uncertain landscape requires access to accurate details and resources. organizations like the Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) offer guidance on immigration law and best practices for employers [Citation: Immigrant Legal Resource Center]. Workers can seek support from local community organizations and legal aid providers. the National Immigration law Center (NILC) provides information on workers’ rights and advocacy efforts [Citation: National Immigration Law Center].

Conclusion

The Los Angeles hospitality industry is currently grappling with significant concerns related to potential immigration enforcement.The anxieties among workers, coupled with the potential economic consequences and operational disruptions, demand proactive strategies and a commitment to protecting vulnerable employees. As the situation evolves, it is imperative for employers, employees, and community organizations to collaborate effectively to mitigate the adverse impacts and foster a supportive habitat. Reach out to local advocacy groups and legal resources for assistance in navigating these challenging times.

Given that a significant portion of teh hospitality industry workforce are immigrants, and perhaps facing deportation/increased enforcement action, what specific economic steps can LA Mayor Karen Bass’s office advocate for in support of struggling immigrant communities during this uncertainty?

Immigration Concerns in Los Angeles Hospitality: An Expert Interview

The Los Angeles hospitality industry is currently facing a wave of anxieties concerning possible immigration enforcement actions. To understand the potential impacts and possible solutions, ArchydeS Eleanor Vance sat down with Sofia Rodriguez, Director of Human Resources at the fictional Grand Vista Hotel Group, a prominent hotel chain in Los Angeles.

Understanding the Current Climate

Eleanor Vance: Sofia, thank you for joining us. There’s a lot of concern in the Los Angeles hospitality industry regarding immigration enforcement. Can you describe the atmosphere right now from your perspective within the Grand Vista Hotel Group?

Sofia Rodriguez: Thank you for having me, Eleanor. The atmosphere is definitely tense. Our employees, many of whom are immigrants, are understandably worried. We’ve seen a slight increase in absenteeism, and there’s a general sense of uncertainty.The potential for immigration enforcement actions creates instability, and that affects everything.

Economic Impact and Labor Disruptions

Eleanor Vance: We’ve read reports estimating significant economic repercussions if large segments of the hospitality workforce are impacted. How is Grand Vista Hotel Group preparing for potential labor shortages due to increased immigration enforcement?

Sofia Rodriguez: We’re taking several steps.First, we’re reinforcing our commitment to workplace compliance, ensuring all our I-9 documentation is accurate and up-to-date. we’ve also partnered with legal counsel to conduct internal audits and train our managers on how to respond appropriately if immigration officials appear. Crucially, we’re also focusing on cross-training employees to build redundancy across different roles. Ultimately, we believe respecting our workers and providing a respectful atmosphere is paramount.

Employee Support and Protection

Eleanor Vance: Unite Here Local 11 has been vocal about protecting immigrant workers.how is Grand Vista working with unions or other organizations to provide support and reassurance to your employees?

Sofia Rodriguez: We maintain open dialogue with Unite Here Local 11, understanding their concerns and working collaboratively to address them. Our current contracts, much like those referenced in reports, already prohibit E-Verify use. More broadly, we’ve organized informational webinars where employees can ask questions and receive accurate information about their rights.We’re also connecting employees with local legal aid providers who can offer free or low-cost legal advice. We want to send a strong message that we value our employees and are here to support them, within the bounds of the law.

addressing the Fear Factor

Eleanor Vance: Experts have mentioned the psychological toll this uncertainty takes on workers. What initiatives has Grand Vista Hotel group implemented to alleviate concerns and foster a supportive environment for its staff given rising immigration fears?

Sofia Rodriguez: That’s a critical issue. We’ve increased the visibility of our HR team and encouraged open communication. We’re actively listening to employees’ concerns and addressing them directly. We’ve also emphasized our existing policies against discrimination and harassment, ensuring everyone feels safe and respected at work. Moreover, we are expanding our employee assistance program to include mental health resources tailored to address anxieties related to immigration concerns.

Navigating the Future

Eleanor Vance: Considering the ongoing uncertainty, what advice would you give to other hospitality businesses in Los Angeles grappling with similar anxieties around the enforcement of US immigration laws?

Sofia Rodriguez: My advice would be to prioritize your employees. Invest in compliance, communication, and employee support. Don’t underestimate the impact of fear and anxiety on your workforce. Be proactive, not reactive.It’s also essential to stay informed about changing laws and regulations and to seek legal counsel to ensure you’re operating within the boundaries of federal and state law.Ignoring this issue will ultimately damage not only your employees but also your buisness.

Eleanor Vance: Sofia, thanks for joining us, one last question for our readers: What proactive steps can individuals outside of the hospitality industry take to stand in solidarity with immigrant workers during these uncertain times? Share your thoughts in the comments below.