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Report: Lawyer says ‘modern-day slavery’ is happening in Virginia

Posted at 7:31 AM, Nov 20, 2012
and last updated 2012-11-20 07:31:34-05

RICHMOND, Va. (WTVR) – In the heart of Richmond’s Southside, you’ll find a community saturated with Latino businesses.

It bustles with community businesses that fulfill the needs of a growing population.

“We are Dominican.  We know how to work the hair.  We know how to treat the people,” said Jose Almonte, co-owner of J&J beauty salon.

Some of the residents like, Jose Almonte, are living the American dream.  Almonte is Dominican and the co-owner of J&J beauty salon.

Jose came to the U.S. in 1997. He and his wife, Judy, moved from the Bronx, New York to open this full service beauty shop in 2005.

“I was working for several people in the beginning, and then finally began opening my own business,” said Almonte. It’s turned into a thriving one along the Hull street corridor.

“I’m legal.  So, that’s the difference,” said Almonte.

But for some Latinos that are also trying to live the American dream, they’ve had nothing but a nightmare.

Click here for the complete story, from WTVR.com in Richmond, Virginia.