COLLINGSWOOD, N.J. – Jersey Kebab is more than just a restaurant for shawarma and baklava; it's become a symbol of community resilience and solidarity. The aftermath of a federal raid last February saw local residents rallying in support of Celal and Emine Emanet, Turkish immigrants whose expired visas led to their detainment.
The Emanet family moved Jersey Kebab to a larger location due to a surge in patronage as locals sought to show their support. “They were not dangerous people — not the type of people we were told on TV they were looking to remove from our country,” Haddon Township Mayor Randy Teague stated.
Celal Emanet, who moved to the U.S. to pursue his education, alongside his wife Emine and children, operated the restaurant amidst mounting pressures from the immigration system. After being detained during a crackdown, Celal was released with an ankle monitor, while Emine spent 15 days in detention. Supporters rallied, raising substantial funds to shoulder their legal costs and sustenance during the restaurant's temporary closure.
As community sentiments shifted, patrons increasingly flocked to the kebab shop, intertwining their culinary cravings with a stance against immigration policies that disproportionately impact peaceful families. Amidst this struggle, the Emanets remain determined to advocate for their right to remain in the U.S. for the sake of their children and their own safety concerning political opposition in Turkey.
“We’re kind of fighting for our right to stay in the country,” expressed Muhammed Emanet, adding that the support from customers illustrates that they are indeed not alone in this fight.
