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Following recent immigration raids, Los Angeles' Boyle Heights neighborhood experienced a significant economic downturn. Mayor Karen Bass and Assemblymember Mark Gonzalez observed deserted streets and struggling businesses, with owners reporting conditions worse than during the COVID-19 pandemic due to decreased customer traffic and lack of to-go orders. The raids' chilling effect extended to downtown, impacting the Fashion District and leading to a curfew that further harmed businesses already struggling post-pandemic. The mayor urged support for affected businesses, highlighting the crucial role of immigrant labor in the city's economy.

Prepared by Christopher Adams and reviewed by editorial team.