"A Day Without Immigrants" in New York on May 1

It's hard to imagine New York City without immigrants. Our city was built by people who came (often fled) from other places and made New York home. On May 1st, immigrant rights activists aim to demonstrate the importance of immigrants to the U.S. economy with a nationwide boycott of work, school, and even shopping.

Thousands of immigrants are expected to participate in the boycott. Others will attend work, but show support by wearing white t-shirts or attending one of the several rallies and protests planned in Manhattan on Monday. In each of New York City's five boroughs, thousands will stop work at 12:16 pm to link arms with supporters along city sidewalks for 20 minutes. Find out more about The Human Chain for Immigrants' Rights.

Business owners fear that an immigrant boycott of this magnitude could effectively shut down New York City if participation is widespread. Many businesses have developed contingency plans while others are closing altogether. Check NY1 for late-breaking developments.