Police issuing citations to vendors for alleged violations has caused frustration among the sellers who claim they are simply trying to make a living.
The battle for space on New York City’s streets and sidewalks is a fierce one, with street vendors often finding themselves at the center of the conflict. One such vendor, Blanca Alvarado, recently found herself in hot water when she was surrounded by police officers while cooking and selling tripa mishqui, an Ecuadorean delicacy, on Junction Boulevard in Corona, Queens.
Despite having a street vendor license, Alvarado did not have a mobile food permit, which is required to legalize the food cart or truck itself. These permits are notoriously difficult to obtain, with thousands of people on waiting lists to receive one. As a result, many street vendors operate without them, risking fines and the confiscation of their carts.
In Alvarado’s case, police officers wrote her several tickets and then proceeded to throw her cart into a garbage truck. This incident is just one of many in a city-wide crackdown on street vendors this year. In April, a group of vendors protested in Brooklyn, claiming they were unfairly targeted by police and facing exorbitant fines that led to some losing their homes.
The plight of street vendors in New York City highlights the challenges they face in navigating a complex and often unfriendly regulatory environment. As they fight for their right to earn a living and provide for their families, they are met with obstacles at every turn. The ongoing battle for space on the city’s streets is a reminder of the resilience and determination of these hardworking individuals in the face of adversity.
Source: The NY Times
