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ICE Raids on Nail Salons—The Asian Immigrant Experience

Across the United States, the nail salon industry is a cornerstone of economic opportunity for Asian immigrants, particularly those from Vietnamese, Korean, and Chinese communities. These salons—such as Nail World in Los Angeles, Star Nails in Houston, and Elegance Nails in Flushing, Queens—are more than just places of business; they are lifelines for families seeking stability and a foothold in their new homeland. Yet, in 2025, aggressive ICE raids and shifting labor laws have upended these communities, casting a shadow of fear and uncertainty over their daily lives.


A Community Under Pressure

For decades, Vietnamese immigrants have dominated the nail salon industry, especially in California, where more than 82% of nail technicians are Vietnamese American, and about 85% are women1. Many of these workers arrived as refugees after the fall of Saigon, building new lives through hard work and entrepreneurship. Today, salons like Blue Nail Bar, Happy Nails & Spa, and Holly and Hudson Nail Lounge in Orange County are not just businesses—they are community hubs and symbols of resilience1.

But recent changes in immigration enforcement and labor law have put immense pressure on these communities. In January 2025, a new executive order rescinded protections for undocumented workers in “sensitive locations,” allowing ICE to conduct unannounced inspections and raids in nail salons nationwide3. The impact has been immediate and profound: workers detained, businesses shuttered, and families left without income.

Ice Raid on Nail Salon
Ice Raid on Nail Salon

The Human Cost of Raids

At Nail World in Los Angeles, a surprise ICE inspection led to the detention of three Vietnamese workers. The salon, a fixture in the neighborhood, closed for days as the owner struggled to find replacements. “I felt helpless,” said Ms. Tran, the owner. “My workers are like family. Now we’re all afraid—even those with papers.” Similar stories have played out at Star Nails in Houston and Elegance Nails in New York, where raids have left employees and customers alike fearful and uncertain3.

The fear is not limited to those without documentation. Even legal residents and naturalized citizens report feeling targeted and unsafe, as ICE agents conduct I-9 audits and demand proof of work eligibility with just 72 hours’ notice3. Language barriers and unfamiliarity with U.S. labor laws make it difficult for many salon owners and workers to navigate these challenges, leaving them vulnerable to heavy fines, criminal charges, or even deportation.


Economic and Social Ripple Effects

The consequences of these raids extend far beyond the salon doors. Nearby businesses—like the Vietnamese sandwich shop next to Nail World and the beauty supply store near Star Nails—have seen a sharp drop in foot traffic. Entire immigrant neighborhoods are feeling the economic strain, as families lose income and local shops lose customers3.

The psychological toll is equally severe. Workers report sleepless nights, anxiety, and isolation. Some have quit the profession or moved out of state to avoid attention. Salon owners face impossible choices: restructure their business, risk legal action, or close their doors for good3.


A Call for Compassion and Change

The Asian immigrant experience in the nail salon industry is one of resilience and determination, but also of profound vulnerability. Advocacy groups like Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ) and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON) are stepping up to provide legal aid, Know Your Rights workshops, and support for affected families3. Yet, more is needed.

Targeting nail salons—businesses that are already struggling with new labor laws and economic uncertainty—does little to address the root causes of unauthorized employment. Instead, it creates fear, disrupts families, and weakens the fabric of immigrant communities.


Conclusion

ICE raids on nail salons are causing real harm to Asian immigrants and their families. The stories of Nail World, Star Nails, and Elegance Nails are just a few examples of the broader crisis facing these communities. It’s time for policymakers to listen to these voices and pursue reforms that protect families, support small businesses, and uphold the values of fairness and compassion that define our nation. The strength of our country lies in the contributions and resilience of its diverse people—including the hardworking Asian immigrants who have made the nail salon industry their own13.

Learn more about the Asian American Experience on 88tumble.com/learn

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