As Hispanic Heritage Month draws to a close, celebrations across New Jersey highlight the deep cultural and economic contributions of the Latino community. But this year, the festivities come with a sense of unease.
Amid increasing political tensions and immigration crackdowns, Hispanic business leaders say they are balancing celebration with serious concerns about policy impacts.
Carlos Medina, president and CEO of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey, says the community has much to be proud of, especially when it comes to economic impact.
“Hispanic business is really booming,” Medina said in an interview with NJ Spotlight News. He cited data from the Latino Donor Collaborative showing that the Hispanic GDP in New Jersey exceeds $100 billion annually. Nationally, that number is $4 trillion.
“If we were our own sovereign entity,” Medina said, “we’d be the fifth largest economy in the world.”
But even with that momentum, Medina says members of the Hispanic business community are facing a tough climate. Increased immigration enforcement, often targeting individuals based on appearance or language, is having an effect on foot traffic and workforce morale.
“Even if they are here legally, if they just look and speak Hispanic, they’re being harassed,” Medina said “People don’t feel safe going out or coming to work. That’s hurting not just Hispanic-owned businesses, but all small businesses.”
Misinformation is compounding the problem, with rumors of immigration raids, whether true or not, keeping customers and workers away. Medina shared that one Mexican restaurant owner was verbally attacked by customers emboldened by the current climate. The chamber is now pursuing legal action.
Beyond immigration issues, economic policies are creating additional challenges. Hispanic business owners who rely on imported goods face unpredictability in pricing and supply chains.
“We just want stability,”Medina said. “Let us adjust and plan. Right now, we’re navigating blind, and that’s a very tough way to run a business.”
Despite the obstacles, Medina says the Chamber continues to push forward with training programs and advocacy. Their entrepreneurship courses have drawn participants from across New Jersey and even New York City.
“With more funding and support, we can help businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen the state’s economy,” he said. “Let us help. Don’t hold us back.”
