Difficulties faced by undocumented immigrants
LanguageAfter crossing the border the most difficult obstacle that many immigrants face is learning the language of their new country. In some ways this might be seen as a ritual since almost all immigrants must do this at one point or another. Immigrants often learn their host country's language through a combination of daily exposure, media such as television, and language classes. For many immigrants from South America the process can be slowed down by the prevalence of Spanish language stores, websites, papers, radio, and TV.
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EmploymentThe act of finding a job is somewhat dangerous. In the absence of friends or family who might refer an undocumented immigrant to a employer, it is almost always difficult to find someone who is willing to take the risk of breaking the law to hire an undocumented worker. Lacking English language skills and education further inhibits the process. Unscrupulous employers often take advantage of undocumented immigrants underpaying them or subjecting them to harsh conditions knowing the workers have no way to protest.
When Ibelia first came to New York she earned just $250 working 6 days a week taking care of another immigrant's baby. Later when she was able to earn $5.00 an hour she was happy. More than a decade later her earnings are above minimum wage but she still worries about her job security. |
HealthcareHealth care is among the most difficult benefits for undocumented immigrants. Not having health insurance forces many immigrants to go without care since paying out of pocket for doctors or prescription medications is far more expensive than most can afford. Through word of mouth, some immigrants share information on doctors who offer services at a discounted rate or speak their language. Through their network immigrants can find hospitals and clinics who offer a version of insurance at discounted rates. Patients often must wait weeks for appointments in not very nice facilities.
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DeportationDeportation has become an increasing fear in the undocumented immigrant community. Ibelia's brother reports sightings of ICE buses in the neighborhood where he works. Stories pass around of people being pulled off the streets to be deported. Fearing the more aggressive policies by the new administration, immigrants are avoiding public gatherings which used to bring their communities together. They also do not report crimes as much and even worry about calling the fire department in an emergency.
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