Channel3000logoSquareRestaurants across the country are joining a new movement to keep employees and customers safe, including several businesses in Madison.

Sanctuary Restaurants hope to help those who feel threatened by the current political climate.

It’s easy for employees at Hawks Bar and Grill like Jacob Flores to come to work when they know they’re supported.

“It’s my favorite job that I’ve had so far. The people that work here, they are all great people. They are all family,” Flores said.

Just like family, Hawks Bar and Grill owners said they stick behind their employees and customers. The restaurant is joining others across the nation by becoming a sanctuary restaurant.

“People in this country should simply be treated equally. It doesn’t matter their status, they are human beings,” owner Hawk Sullivan said.

“Growing up being native and Mexican I experienced a lot of adversity in my life and it’s great knowing, especially the place that I work and come often, that is a safe place,”  Flores said.

A safe place means no matter your race, religion, sexual orientation or immigration status there’s always a place at the table.

“We don’t have any tolerance for sexism, racism, or xenophobia and also if we see those things we are going to confront them, ” Sullivan said.

Nationally, many restaurants are also working to protect their immigrant workers. Businesses are working with Restaurants Opportunities Centers United to offer resources to their employees and participate in networking strategies to protect targeted workers.