In response to the January 24 shooting death of Alex Preti by ICE in Minneapolis, nonprofits and small businesses across the country are participating in a nationwide shutdown and general strike to show solidarity with Minnesotans and action against ICE. While many restaurants and shops in Los Angeles have closed permanently, others are staying open to foster community, continue to pay their employees, and continue to operate while making donations to social justice organizations.
Vidiots in Los Angeles’ Eagle Rock neighborhood announced Friday that all screenings will be free. Movies like “What’s Love Got to Do With It” and “UHF” are shown in the evening.
At the American Cinematheque, you can watch “Something Wild” at Aero in Santa Monica, “Horse Feathers” and “The Murder of a Chinese Bookie” at Los Feliz 3 for free. Aero includes complimentary popcorn and soda.
Cultural venues such as Braindead Studios and the Neon Museum will also be closed on Friday.
Among the organizations supporting this effort are IATSE Local 800 (Art Directors Guild) and WGA West, who will be participating in a National Day of Action rally at Los Angeles City Hall on Friday at 1 p.m.
Restaurants closing this day include Jones on Third, Wild’s, Bar Siesta, Canyon Coffee, Courage Bagels, Tomato, Bassetti Trattoria and Proof Bakery.
Restaurants and other stores that will remain open but are supporting closures through donations to CHIRLA and other efforts include Kismet, Maru Coffee, Homestate, Bab and Grandma’s, Bell’s Bagels, Donna’s, Little Dom’s, Bar Shinizuki, and Valerie Confections.
Learn more about local businesses and organizations helping with closures at LATaco.
