Enhanced immigration enforcement efforts in Key West and Stock Island have resulted in the removal of at least 65 individuals since August 1, according to Keys Weekly. Lucy Hawk, co-founder of the Key West Immigrant Support Network, estimates the number could be as high as 75 to 80 people detained this month alone.

Community Fear Amidst Increased Enforcement

The detentions have primarily affected Hispanic and Haitian immigrants, with at least one Eastern European resident also reported detained. This heightened activity has instilled significant fear within the immigrant community. Hawk noted that some parents have kept their children home from school due to concerns about being detained during drop-off or pick-up times. Children are reportedly being given backup plans in case their parents are unable to pick them up from school.

The Key West Immigrant Support Network is actively disseminating warnings and updates in English, French Creole, and Spanish via social media. They are also seeking volunteers to assist with transportation for work, school, and appointments. Hawk mentioned that immigration agents are using license plate scanners to identify vehicles registered to immigrants, citing an instance where a driver with a green card was detained.

Businesses Grapple with Staffing Shortages

Local businesses, particularly restaurants, are experiencing severe staffing shortages as a direct consequence of these immigration enforcement actions and the expiration of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians. Bill Lay, a Key West restaurant owner, stated that while he understands the need to remove individuals with criminal records, the majority of those detained are not problematic. He emphasized the importance of balancing security with humanity, calling the U.S. a nation of immigrants.

Lay highlighted that over 30 of his kitchen staff members are currently at risk, despite holding work authorizations and passing E-verify checks. He expressed concern that this situation could lead to restaurants reducing operating hours, ceasing to serve lunch, or even closing for multiple days a week. Lay has been advocating for legislative changes in Tallahassee and Washington, D.C., with support from the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association, to address the estimated 20 million undocumented immigrants working in the U.S. across various sectors, including hospitality and healthcare.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing enforcement actions and their impact on the local workforce and community continuing to unfold. The Keys Weekly reported on Bill Lay's lobbying efforts in their September 3rd edition.