A Bookstore's Bold Stand for Immigrant Rights

Thank You Books in Birmingham is taking a stand for immigrant rights. The local bookstore has decided to donate 10% of its sales this week to the Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama (¡HICA!).

This move comes as protests against federal immigration enforcement, specifically ICE, are happening in Minneapolis and St. Paul.

A Strong Message of Support

The bookstore shared a photo from these protests on its social media platforms. Along with the photo, they posted a strong message:

"We stand with the people and businesses in Minnesota. We are horrified by the actions of ICE. Take care of yourselves and your neighbors."

Tensions Rise After Nurse's Death

This news comes at a time when tensions are high. A nurse named Alex Pretti was killed by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis. Cellphone footage tells a different story than what officials said. The video shows Pretti holding a phone, not a gun, when he was tackled and shot. He had a gun in a holster, but it seems he was disarmed before he was shot.

Pretti's death has added to the outrage. Just a few weeks ago, Renee Good was shot in the head by an ICE officer. This month alone, at least six immigrants have died while in federal immigration detention centers. Last year was the deadliest year for ICE-related deaths in two decades, with 32 people losing their lives in custody.

Businesses Close in Protest

In response to these events, hundreds of businesses in Minneapolis closed their doors. This was part of an economic blackout to protest ICE. Some businesses stayed open to provide shelter for demonstrators, offering free food and warmth during the cold protests.

A Call to Action

The bookstore's action is a reminder that businesses can use their platform to support important causes. It's also a call to action for others to stand up for immigrant rights.