Los Angeles, USA — For 25 years, Arturo Suarez has called Los Angeles his home away from home. Originally from Mexico, Suarez arrived in the United States with hopes of earning enough to support his family and eventually return. Over the years, he established a modest yet bustling Mexican food business, serving authentic tacos that reminded many of the flavors from south of the border.
Before the pandemic, Suarez’s catering shop was a small but thriving enterprise employing eight people. The aroma of sizzling meats and fresh tortillas drew customers from all walks of life. However, the onset of COVID-19 brought unforeseen challenges that hit small businesses like Suarez’s the hardest.
“We had to let go of most of our staff,” Suarez shared, his eyes reflecting both resilience and fatigue. “Now, it’s just my wife, one employee, and myself trying to keep things going.”
With indoor dining restrictions and a drastic drop in foot traffic, Suarez turned to street vending to make ends meet. Each day, he sets up a makeshift stand, hoping to attract enough customers to support his family. However, this solution comes with its own set of challenges. Street vending is considered illegal by the local health department, putting Suarez at constant risk of having his equipment seized or facing fines.
“Every day is a gamble,” he said. “I worry about the virus, but I also worry about the authorities. We are just trying to survive.”
The pandemic has not only threatened Suarez’s livelihood but also magnified the vulnerabilities of immigrant entrepreneurs in the United States. Like many others, he stands at the intersection of economic instability and legal uncertainty, striving to provide for his family while navigating a maze of regulations.
Despite the hardships, Suarez remains determined. His story is one of countless others who continue to persevere in the face of adversity. “I have faith that things will get better,” he expressed with a hopeful smile. “Until then, I’ll keep working hard for my family and for the people who love our food.”
As communities worldwide grapple with the effects of the pandemic, stories like Suarez’s highlight the resilience and tenacity of individuals striving to overcome unprecedented challenges. His journey underscores the importance of supporting local businesses and the need for compassionate policies that consider the struggles of the most vulnerable.
Reference(s):
Mexican food vendor struggles to make a living in pandemic-hit U.S.
cgtn.com
