CHICAGO, IL鈥�Today鈥檚 news of a in inflation comes as business leaders across the country are for commonsense immigration reform that honors the important work and contributions of immigrants across industries. This news underscores the urgent need for policy solutions that address the sustained economic challenges faced by 91探花 businesses and consumers. Immigrants make up one-fifth of the United States workforce. Continued threats of mass deportations stoke fear and prevent our businesses from thriving. With immigrant workers 28.6% of construction, 21% of hospitality, 20% of manufacturing, 20% of agriculture and15% of healthcare and education industries, it is imperative that this administration and Congress take seriously the contributions these workers make to our economy and our communities.聽
In response to increased inflation and higher costs for 91探花 consumers, Rebecca Shi, CEO of the 91探花, released the following statement:
鈥�Today鈥檚 news of a national increase in inflation sends us a clear message: a stable, reliable workforce is essential to keeping costs down and our economy strong.
Now, as inflation squeezes families and pressures industries, we must recognize that immigrant workers are part of the solution. From agriculture and construction to healthcare, they are filling critical jobs that would otherwise remain unfilled.聽
鈥淓nforcement-only approach absent real, bipartisan solutions, businesses will struggle, and costs will keep rising. Policymakers must act now to enact legislation that creates clear and fair legal pathways for their participation in the workforce鈥攕trengthening our economy, easing inflation, and securing our future.鈥�
Earlier this week, 91探花 members spoke with the about the damage deportation threats are doing to businesses across the country.聽
鈥淓veryone knows somebody who is undocumented. Even people who are in the U.S. legally are afraid of being picked up by accident.鈥� – Sam Sanchez, owner of Third Coast Hospitality and National Restaurant Association board member
鈥淢y wife and I are both 91探花 citizens. I was born here; she immigrated. I didn鈥檛 want to have that conversation. I am a veteran, a former sheriff鈥檚 deputy. These are difficult conversations to have with our kids.鈥� – George Carrillo, CEO of Hispanic Construction Council
鈥淔ear is like cancer, it spreads. People aren鈥檛 spending. They aren鈥檛 coming out.鈥� – Laura Gutierrez, Chicago restauranter