Minnesotans across the state continue to feel the impact of Operation Metro Surge. ICE's actions in our communities, in addition to the traumatic human impact, have had a chilling effect on scores of businesses and workers across the state. Many establishments have been left without patrons, without employees and, in some cases, without means to pay their overhead costs. Many workers with full legal status have suffered economic harm, as fear of apprehension caused them to avoid the workplace.

As I said in early Star Tribune coverage of the federal operation, ICE's actions have a clear negative impact on businesses large and small – especially those owned by people of color being unjustly targeted by federal actions. Diversity is critical for a thriving economy and is at the foundation of Minnesota's communities.

DEED worked with Governor Tim Walz to launch the "Shop Local, Stand Together" campaign to help raise attention for the economic impact on small businesses and how Minnesotans can help our state's small businesses survive.

I kicked off the campaign at the Los Ocampo St. Paul location, where I was joined by state leaders, local officials and Twin Cities entrepreneurs to encourage Minnesotans to shop local and support small businesses during challenging times. We heard from Senator Erin Murphy, St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her and Los Ocampo business owner Julian Ocampo about the devastating impact of the federal operation on restaurants and small businesses. In an official proclamation, Governor Walz declared February Shop Local Month. Together, we held a press conference at Malcolm Yards in Minneapolis to talk about the impact of ICE operations – not just on small businesses, but also in our schools, our hospitals and our homes.

Even now, businesses across the state are still under pressure, and state relief funds, if approved by the legislature, will take time to reach them. In the meantime, there's still a lot of work to be done and numerous businesses that need support to survive. DEED continues to work with local partners in the business community, the economic development community and local governments to promote the Support Local effort. While many Minnesotans have been doing a lot of heavy lifting for months, others in areas that haven't been as deeply impacted may be wondering what they can do to help.

I encourage you to join me in supporting local businesses. Eating and shopping local, getting out and supporting immigrant-led businesses in Minnesota hardly feels like a courageous act, but it is a practical, visible and immediate way to support our communities. As you're able, buy extra food, necessities, splurges, gifts or merchandise to donate to causes helping those who have been afraid to leave their homes for fear of being detained. Tip generously. Shopping local is not just a transaction – it is an act of community care.

Many fundraising efforts are also underway – for example, the Minneapolis Foundation CEO announced this economic response fund when he joined us for the press event at Los Ocampo – and seeking contributions to support specific business districts or types of businesses that were profoundly impacted by Operation Metro Surge. DEED also has a list of resources published for small businesses to consider. Donations to trusted community partners working to assist local businesses can also be very impactful.

With the close of February as "Shop Local" month, the effort to encourage consumers to spend locally will not end. DEED will continue to partner and promote choosing our local businesses and supporting one another through the recovery. Every purchase and donation sends a message that these businesses belong and that we stand together.