Nestled in Ashmont, a neighborhood of Dorchester, is a quaint store called The Local Hand that sells unique items and original local art. At first glance, it looks like your normal, local neighborhood shop. But lately, it has taken on a new assignment and become a space for solidarity and community activism.

During a day that called for businesses to close in support of those who are dealing with ICE’s ongoing surveillance, The Local Hand’s owner, Michaela Flatley, chose a different route. Using her love for creating, she carved out a section in the store where visitors can make anti-ICE signs. People can go in, pour some hot chocolate and express their emotions creatively. Located near the back of the store, you will find blank posters, lots of markers and tables.

Protesting and advocacy takes many forms. Some march. Others use hashtags. And some, like The Local Hand, use art to promote a cause near to their hearts.

Claire Hudges has worked at the shop since it opened four years ago and has enjoyed being a part of this form of community support. Watching people enter feeling tense but leaving more relaxed has been wonderful for her to witness. “I think it was a good exercise for people to get their anxiety out. So, it was actually nice to see it take on that more positive reaction,” she said.

Intentionally comforting, this area is the epitome of a safe space. It was created for people to advocate for their fellow Dorchester residents. Not only does this section have a sign making section, but there are also whistles people within the community can take. These whistles are to alert those nearby if ICE is present. When the whistles are blown, the vulnerable population can quickly take cover.

This cause is especially important to Hudges. Although she does not know of anyone who has been directly impacted by ICE, she has people in her life who are immigrants. At times, this causes her to worry about their safety. “My son in law is from South Korea, and he has to renew his green card,” she said. “They told him it might be like 30 months before he gets it. Every time they go travel somewhere, my heart’s always in my mouth because you just don’t know.”

While sign making within a store is an unconventional form of activism, Hudges believes that this sanctuary allows community members to embody both creativity and activism at the same time.