Bismarck Restaurant Closes After Employees Detained by ICE
Charras and Tequila, a Mexican restaurant that has been operating in North Bismarck since 2018 is making local headlines today (Sept. 23rd). The owner made a statement on Facebook. He said the restaurant would be closed for the next couple of days after ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement) detained two employees.
The owner posted a video airing his concerns and frustrations, claiming the detained employees have permanent resident cards and documentation authorizing them to work in the country.
I am deeply concerned and frustrated. Two of our employees have been detained by ICE. Both have permanent resident cards and documentation authorizing them to work in the United States. One of them is my own nephew, he said.
Permanent Resident Cards Briefly Explained
A Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) is a physical card/form of documentation issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It usually expires every 10 years, though if the card expires, that doesn't mean the person's legal status has expired too.
Some people might get granted a card through a recent marriage to a U.S. citizen or, in some cases, through an investment; those individuals are considered "Conditional residents." Those cards usually expire after two years. Individuals with conditional residency must apply for a standard 10-year card ahead of the 2-year expiration date.
A more thorough explanation of Green Card requirements can be found on the USCIS website, USCIS.gov.
Restaurant Temporarily Closed
The owner added that the family is in shock.
We work hard to run our business the right way, follow the rules, and provide jobs to our community. These are people with families, responsibilities, and lives here, and I am deeply worried about them and their loved ones, he said.
He went on to say this is affecting the business, with many employees choosing to stay home rather than come in to work.
After what happened this morning, our entire team is in shock. Many of our employees are scared to come to work, even though they are legally here, he said.
The owners stated they are processing what happened and planning for the future of the restaurant. They will be closed for a short period of time.
We need time to process what has happened, plan, organize, and figure out the best steps forward. Charras and Tequila will be closed starting tomorrow for the next couple of days.
Note: None of the above statements have been independently verified by the radio station or its parent organization, nor do they reflect the opinions or sentiments of station staff. All information provided is based solely on the restaurant owner's public statements.
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