Business Owner Voices Concerns for Hardworking Immigrant Employees

Argues that law-abiding immigrants should not have to live in fear of deportation

Apr. 7, 2026 at 7:49pm

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A moody, cinematic painting of a solitary immigrant worker standing alone on a dimly lit urban street corner, conveying a sense of unease and uncertainty through the use of warm, diagonal lighting and deep shadows.A business owner's immigrant employees live in constant fear of deportation despite their positive contributions to the community.Cleveland Today

A business owner in Willoughby Hills, Ohio has expressed concerns about the fear and uncertainty facing their immigrant employees, even those who have legally immigrated or are following rules for undocumented immigrants. The owner argues that these hardworking, taxpaying individuals should not have to live with the constant fear of being apprehended and deported without due process.

Why it matters

This story highlights the ongoing debate around immigration policy and the real-world impacts on immigrant communities, including those who are contributing positively to their local economies and communities. It raises questions about balancing enforcement with compassion and due process.

The details

The business owner describes helping a Peruvian family legally immigrate to the U.S., as well as having two other undocumented employees who have worked, paid taxes, and followed the law for up to 20 years. The owner says these employees, including one married to a U.S. citizen with three U.S. citizen children, are afraid to even attend scheduled immigration check-ins.

  • The Peruvian family has been in Cleveland for three years.
  • It took over two years and $30,000 to legally move the Peruvian family to the U.S.

The players

Peruvian Family

A family that the business owner helped legally immigrate to the U.S. and who now work, pay taxes, own a house and cars, and are working toward U.S. citizenship.

Two Other Employees

Undocumented immigrants who have worked, paid taxes, and followed the law for up to 20 years, including one married to a U.S. citizen with three U.S. citizen children.

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What they’re saying

“It is not right that contributors to our community should have to live with fear of being apprehended and deported.”

— Business Owner

The takeaway

This story highlights the complex realities facing immigrant communities, even those who are actively contributing to their local economies and following the rules. It underscores the need for balanced, compassionate immigration policies that protect due process.