San Jose businesses shut down in support of 'Day without immigrants'

SAN JOSE, Calif. - Several businesses in San Jose were closed Monday, and some workers chose to stay home as part of the nationwide movement, a "Day without immigrants."

Highlights economic impact 

Local perspective:

The protest and boycott aimed to demonstrate how important immigrants are to the U.S. economy.

Thousands across the country, including in the South Bay, took an economic stand.

"They've done so much, and I just feel like it's not appreciated enough," said Christian Abarca of San Jose.

Xander Sanchez said he skipped work at his warehouse job, as did many of his coworkers.

"Like 99% of all our employees are immigrants, so without us there, that place would be shut down," Sanchez said.

Some businesses scaled back operations, while others shut down to support the protest.

At Paleta Planeta, the owners wanted to speak up.

"Now, in times like these, we feel like it's important to stand in solidarity and be united as one. Because, yeah, it is scary times for the immigrant community," said owner Mauricio Salazar.

‘We bleed the same’

What they're saying:

Trump's immigration policies have them on edge: the rhetoric and the raids.

Those who took part in Monday's protest said they wanted acknowledgment and equality.

"I'm just like you. We bleed the same. We cry the same. We die the same. We work the same. We all come from somewhere. From somewhere and not here. But we're here today, so take us for who we are," said Maria McDade of San Jose.

They hope the day of action made a difference.

"Why are we scared? Scared of who? Scared of Trump? Who are we scared of? Why can't we enjoy the land of the free?" McDade said.