Day Without Immigrants (2017)

The "Day Without Immigrants" was a protest and general strike that took place on February 16, 2017, in the United States. It was organized in response to then-President Donald Trump's proposed immigration policies, particularly his plans to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and his executive order banning travel from several Muslim-majority countries.

The protest encouraged immigrants across the country to demonstrate their economic and social contributions by not going to work, not spending money, and keeping their children out of school for one day. Organizers aimed to highlight the crucial role immigrants play in the U.S. economy and society.

Participating businesses, primarily restaurants and grocery stores, temporarily closed or offered limited services in solidarity. While participation was difficult to quantify precisely, significant disruptions were reported in various cities, particularly in sectors heavily reliant on immigrant labor, such as food service and construction.

The "Day Without Immigrants" protest sparked debate about immigration policy, immigrant rights, and the economic impact of immigration. Supporters viewed it as a successful demonstration of immigrant power and a call for more humane immigration policies. Critics argued that the protest disrupted businesses and inconvenienced the public.

The event was largely organized through social media and word-of-mouth, demonstrating the increasing role of digital activism in contemporary social movements. Its legacy continues to be debated in the context of ongoing discussions about immigration reform in the United States.