Kenyan Entrepreneur in Minneapolis Struggles as ICE Crackdown Keeps Customers Away

A Kenyan entrepreneur in Minneapolis is struggling to keep her salon afloat amid heightened US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations, which have led to a sharp decline in customer numbers.

Glayonce Pinky, the owner of African Pinkylicious Salon, says fear within the immigrant community has disrupted her business, with many clients staying away due to concerns about potential encounters with ICE officers. The salon, a key cultural hub for East African residents, now faces empty chairs and anxious staff.

Pinky opened her salon with the vision of providing beauty services alongside a sense of community. However, the recent surge in ICE activity, driven by renewed immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump, has caused widespread apprehension among local residents, regardless of their legal status. 

The fear has affected both small businesses and the communities they serve, with many people choosing to stay indoors rather than risk potential deportation. The economic strain on businesses like Pinky’s is severe. Fixed costs such as rent and staff wages remain unchanged, while the number of customers dwindles. 

Immigrant entrepreneurs, who depend on these communities for their livelihoods, face the added pressure of trying to maintain their businesses in a climate of fear.

Community leaders, including Kenyan-born legislator Huldah Momanyi Hiltsley, have raised concerns about the broader impact on social and economic stability. 

They warn that this climate of fear is eroding family life and community cohesion, as people avoid public spaces, including schools and workplaces. Despite these challenges, Pinky remains committed to her business, refusing to close the salon. 

She continues to prepare the space each day in the hope that customers will eventually return.