Pittsburgh bookstore hands out ‘anti-ICE whistles,’ owner says she’s not worried about losing followers

A business owner in Pittsburgh is making a bold statement by standing up against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) through her social media posts. Lizzie McCoy, the owner of Blythe Books in Brentwood, took to Instagram to warn her followers about ICE presence in the area. Despite the possibility of losing customers due to her anti-ICE advocacy, McCoy remains steadfast in her beliefs.

McCoy’s Instagram post urged residents to check on their neighbors who may be impacted by ICE activities and encouraged them to spread the word. She even offered free ICE whistles at her bookstore as a symbol of resistance against ICE. McCoy’s dedication to raising awareness about ICE presence in the community is unwavering, even if it means losing followers on social media.

Another business owner in Pittsburgh, Marla Solnik of Creative Chem Co, participated in the national “ICE Out!” protest on January 30, where businesses closed their doors to show solidarity against ICE. Solnik emphasized that the issue at hand is a human rights concern and expressed her refusal to stay silent in the face of injustice.

While some businesses chose to close in protest, others remained open and donated funds to organizations fighting against ICE, such as Frontline Dignity. Trace Brewing in Pittsburgh raised $300 for Frontline Dignity and hosted fundraising events to support the anti-ICE movement. The general manager of Trace Brewing, Katie Rado, emphasized the importance of creating a strong community through activism.

Aadam Soorma, a staff member at Trace Brewing, echoed the sentiment that advocating against ICE is a moral obligation. He believes that providing a space for anti-ICE activism is crucial in fostering a compassionate and inclusive community. Soorma stated that the brewery is not concerned about losing business due to their support for anti-ICE organizations.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Soorma reiterated that Trace Brewing prioritizes access and inclusion in their space and is committed to hosting more benefit nights to support organizations like Casa San Jose and Frontline Dignity. Despite the potential backlash, the brewery remains dedicated to their values and community.

Overall, these Pittsburgh business owners are taking a stand against ICE and advocating for human rights in their community. Their unwavering commitment to social justice is reflected in their actions and statements, demonstrating the power of local businesses in driving positive change.