MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Manolo Betancur says he needed to let Mecklenburg County Commissioners know how fearful the local Latino community has been since the new administration took over.
He says his bakery and other businesses are losing money daily, and his people fear being ripped out of their neighborhoods.
“Superman is the most loved superhero in the land of the free and the home of the brave. I’m wondering if you’ve told them that our most powerful hero is an immigrant,” Bentancur said, looking at a Superman action figure.
That’s how he began his plea to Mecklenburg County commissioners Wednesday night.
“Also, the symbol on his chest means hope. Hope is what made us immigrate to America,” he told commissioners.
Betancur told commissioners the local Latino community is worried about their future. He says since President Trump took office, Hispanics have faced a difficult time, including his fellow small business owners.
“Since January 21, many small businesses have lost money, including my bakery. Restaurants, barbers, flea markets, food distributors, and supermarkets… For example, one local food distributor went from 1 million a month to $550,000,” Bentancur said.
Bentancur owns Manolo’s Bakery on Central Avenue. The immigration crackdown isn’t his only concern. He uses baking equipment from Canada, so tariffs affect him.
He also buys 10,000 eggs a week for his cakes and bird flu’s cutting into egg supplies. But Betancur also says his family and friends don’t feel safe anymore.
“I’m not asking anyone to create a revolution or go against the federal government. You know, elections are over and the country chose their leaders but at least you have a sense of humanity,” he said. “Let us know that we are not alone and we are welcome here. You are also our superman, our superwoman, especially for my kids. Thank you so much.”
Bentancur says he knows the county commissioners don’t have a say in federal policy but he’s hoping they advocate for Latinos in this community.
