Immigrants across the country are planning to walk off the job and close up shop Thursday to demonstrate the impact immigrants have on the nation’s economy.
"A Day Without Immigrants" actions are planned in cities including Philadelphia, Washington, Boston, Houston, Chicago and New York. The protest gained momentum on social media and by word of mouth.
In Baltimore, a group known as the Artesanas Mexicanas is leading the strike, with a rally scheduled to begin outside the Creative Alliance on Eastern Avenue at 1 p.m. Protesters said a stop will be made at Patterson Park.
On Thursday February 16 across the whole country, immigrants will walk off their jobs, classes, and will do an economic boycott. Here in Baltimore we will do the same! The Artesanas Mexicanas invite all to show that united we are strong and that this society cannot do without immigrants. We start in front of Creative Alliance (3134 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore MD 21224) at 1pm and will make a stop in Patterson Park. Bring your kids and don't forget to not buy anything tomorrow! Prepare in advance!
At least one Baltimore restaurant, Ekiben in Fells Point, says it will shut down during the boycott.
The protests come in response to President Donald Trump, whose administration has pledged to increase the deportation of immigrants living in the country illegally. Trump campaigned on building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, and blamed high unemployment on immigration. As president, he's called for a ban on people from seven Muslim-majority countries from coming into the U.S.
RELATED: Baltimore mayor: We don't want ICE in Baltimore
Organizers expect thousands of people to participate or show solidarity with workers.
ABC2 News contributed to this report.
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