Immigration in the United States is frequently seen through a lens of control and management. Concerns about immigrants crossing borders without authorization and allegedly “taking jobs” away from U.S. citizens are common narratives. This perspective has gained traction, especially during Donald Trump’s presidency, where immigrants were often depicted as a burden on national resources.
However, research presents a different perspective, highlighting the positive contributions of immigrants. I am a historian specializing in business and culture, leading the Gainesville Business History Project at the University of Florida since 2021. This project explores the historical patterns of local businesses and their societal impact.
Exploring Local Business History
The project employs a nearby history approach, acknowledging the significance of local businesses in shaping historical records. Our ten-member team has conducted interviews with over 40 entrepreneurs in Florida, where about 22% to 23% of residents are foreign-born, significantly above the national average of 14%.
In 2023, nearly half of Florida’s workforce in key sectors like agriculture and tourism comprised foreign-born individuals. Additionally, a 2025 study revealed that 5% of these immigrants were entrepreneurs, indicating their role in economic growth.
Our interviews revealed how immigrant-founded businesses evolve into community cornerstones, demonstrating immigrants’ integral roles in their communities.
La Aurora Latin Market: A Community Staple
La Aurora Latin Market, a Latin grocery store in Gainesville, exemplifies how immigrant-owned businesses become community staples. Aurora Ynigo, who immigrated from Mexico, opened the store in 1999 to meet the demand for Hispanic products in the area.
For years, the Ynigo family traveled to Miami for supplies, catering to the needs of Gainesville’s Hispanic community. Today, La Aurora offers a diverse range of Latin American products and has become a cultural hub for the growing Spanish-speaking population.
Mary’s Cafe & Coin Laundry: A Family Legacy
Mary’s Cafe and Laundry in Miami has served the community for over 40 years, founded by Eumelia Morales Fernández, a Cuban immigrant. The business has remained in the family for generations, starting as a small supermarket and evolving into a laundromat and cafe.
The cafe, known for its traditional menu, continues to be a family-operated business, now managed by Eumelia’s granddaughter Vicky. The continuity of family management has preserved its cultural and historical significance.
Photo by the author, taken in 2025, CC BY-NC-ND
16th Avenue Diner: A Southern Icon
The 16th Avenue Diner, an emblem of southern cuisine in Gainesville, has been serving the community for over 50 years. Gilberto Argoytia Miranda, the current owner, hails from Mexico City, where he gained experience operating food trucks.
Argoytia Miranda was committed to preserving the diner’s traditional menu and atmosphere. He aims to introduce Latino flavors gradually, ensuring they are well-received by the loyal clientele.
Photo by the author, taken in November 2025, CC BY-NC-ND
While maintaining the diner’s essence, Argoytia Miranda is open to innovation, introducing new dishes to the menu if they are well received by patrons.
