'Nobody working today': Businesses close so employees can protest immigration bill

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (KOKH) — Some Oklahoma City-area businesses, including those tied to the Hispanic community, decided to shut down on Wednesday to give employees the chance to participate in a protest against immigration legislation at the Oklahoma State Capitol.

The Facebook page for La Laja Mexican Restaurant in Warr Acres included a post on social media that the establishment shuttered for the day in solidarity with its immigrant community members—and voiced opposition to House Bill 4156.

The legislation directs law enforcement across the state to address the issue of illegal immigration through misdemeanor and felony charges. It is set to take effect Jul. 1.

Nery Aguilar owns a carpet and flooring business in the Tulsa area. He and six of his employees were among those who added their voices to Wednesday's calls to nix the immigration legislation instead of going about their normal work day.

In his view, "It's important for my company, for the families, for everybody. It's... important... coming here today."

"I talked to my employees yesterday. Nobody working today," he added.

The Red Cup, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant near N. Classen Blvd. and N.W. 31st St. in Oklahoma City, shut down alongside numerous businesses near S.W. 29th St. and S. Pennsylvania Ave—including restaurants Taqueria La Tropicana, Taqueria Los Desvelados, hair salon Estetica Familiar, and sporting goods store Deportes Martinez.

Additionally, Neighborhood Jam, Sunnyside Diner, and the Paseo Grill all posted on social media about pausing normal operations in light of the event.

For Aguilar, showing up on Wednesday was personal. He noted the legislation could impact "my family... my wife and my... sons. Everything... is right here."