Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh Bookstore Advocates Against ICE with Community Support
3/10/2026, 10:44:06 PM
Community Advocacy Against ICE Presence
Lizzie McCoy, the owner of Blythe Books in Brentwood, Pittsburgh, has taken a strong stance against the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) by using her bookstore as a platform for advocacy. McCoy has utilized social media to alert the community about ICE's presence, encouraging residents to check on neighbors who may feel unsafe. Her Instagram posts include messages like, “Please check in on any neighbors you have who might not be able to leave their house in these conditions,” and she has even offered free anti-ICE whistles to the public, promoting them with signs that read, “Anti-ICE whistle. Free. Take and share! Please don’t test in store, they work.”
Broader Movement and Local Business Involvement
The anti-ICE sentiment in Pittsburgh has gained traction, with other local businesses joining the cause. For instance, Marla Solnik, owner of Creative Chem Co, participated in the national “ICE Out!” protest on January 30, where several businesses closed their doors to demonstrate opposition to ICE activities. Solnik emphasized the importance of speaking out against what she described as violence in communities, stating, “It is not OK to be pulling people off the streets.” Meanwhile, Trace Brewing, another local business, raised $300 for Frontline Dignity, an organization that conducts anti-ICE training.
Perspectives on Community Impact
McCoy has expressed that she is not concerned about potential backlash or loss of customers due to her advocacy. “If I lose followers, but I let the community as a whole know that there’s ICE presence in Brentwood, at the end of night, I lay my head down and sleep. It doesn’t bother me,” she stated. This sentiment is echoed by Aadam Soorma, head of marketing at Trace Brewing, who believes that their community is largely supportive of their initiatives. He remarked, “We’re lucky to be surrounded by compassionate people,” and noted that their business model prioritizes access and inclusion.
Criticism and Opposition
While many local businesses have aligned themselves with the anti-ICE movement, there are those who have chosen to remain neutral or even support ICE-related activities. The divergence in community responses highlights the complexity of the issue, as some businesses have opted to continue operations without engaging in political advocacy.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If I lose followers, but I let the community as a whole know that there’s ICE presence in Brentwood, at the end of night, I lay my head down and sleep. It doesn’t bother me.” — Lizzie McCoy, Owner of Blythe Books
- “It is not OK to be pulling people off the streets.” — Marla Solnik, Owner of Creative Chem Co
This advocacy movement in Pittsburgh illustrates a growing trend among local businesses to engage in social issues, reflecting a commitment to community welfare over potential financial repercussions.
