Birmingham Bookstore Donates Sales to Support Immigrant Rights

A Birmingham bookstore is taking a stand for immigrant rights by donating a portion of its sales to an organization advocating for these communities. From January 25 to January 31, 2025, Thank You Books will contribute 10% of its sales to the Hispanic and Immigrant Center of Alabama (¡HICA!). This initiative aligns with ongoing protests against federal immigration enforcement actions in Minneapolis, where public outcry has escalated following recent incidents involving U.S. Border Patrol agents.

The bookstore announced its support through social media, sharing a photograph from the Minneapolis protests, which drew thousands of participants. “We stand in solidarity with the people and businesses of Minnesota and are horrified by the actions of ICE,” Thank You Books stated on its website and various social media platforms. The post urged the community to “take care of yourselves and your neighbors,” emphasizing a collective responsibility amidst a climate of fear and uncertainty.

This initiative comes in the wake of a tragic event involving Alex Pretti, a 37-year-old intensive care unit nurse who was fatally shot by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in Minneapolis. Reports indicate that video footage contradicts official accounts from the Department of Homeland Security and President Donald Trump, which claimed that Pretti posed a threat. The footage shows him holding a phone and not a weapon when he was tackled and shot. This incident has intensified protests against immigration enforcement, following the January 7 death of Renee Good, who was also shot by an ICE officer.

Escalating Concerns Over ICE Actions

The recent fatalities have heightened public concern regarding the treatment of immigrants in federal custody. At least six immigrants have died this month alone while detained, a statistic that adds to the growing criticism of ICE’s practices. According to a report by The Guardian, 32 individuals died in ICE custody in 2024, marking that year as the deadliest for ICE-related deaths in two decades.

In response to these events, hundreds of Minneapolis businesses participated in an economic blackout on Friday, temporarily closing their doors to protest ICE actions. This demonstration coincided with one of the slowest retail periods of the year and aimed to draw attention to the urgent need for reform. Some businesses remained open, offering food and warmth to protesters enduring frigid temperatures during the “ICE Out” demonstration.

Protest organizers called for a suspension of normal business activities to demand a halt to ICE operations in Minnesota. They emphasized the need for accountability for federal agents responsible for the loss of life and urged Congress to intervene immediately.

The solidarity shown by Thank You Books and other businesses across the nation reflects a growing movement advocating for immigrant rights and accountability from federal authorities. As the situation unfolds, the impact of these protests continues to resonate, highlighting the intersection of community action and policy reform.