Illegal Immigration from Mexico
Since the 1970s, illegal immigration from Mexico has been a problem. The high migration rate from Mexico is due to several factors
The proximity of Mexico and the U.S., as well as the difference in quality of life, are two of the reasons. Many people come from poor areas of Mexico and want to move to the United States in order to live the American dream. The United States witnessed a substantial increase in illegal Mexican immigrants during the 1980s. The immigration influx did not only affect Mexicans from one region, but also affected communities throughout Mexico.
People from larger cities like Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara do not have the same quality of life as those who live in rural areas. Individuals from larger cities have greater access to opportunities. People who live in small towns are more likely to work in agriculture or start a small business to earn a living. Mexicans make an average of $4.15 per hour, and those working in agriculture earn even less. Although an individual can live on this wage, it is difficult to support a family. About 40% of Mexicans live below the poverty line. While unemployment is around 4%, it is estimated that close to 25% of people who work are considered underemployed.
In many cases, even if jobs are created they are insufficient to meet the growing demand from the Mexican population. They may not be able to afford the most basic needs because of their low pay. Many Mexicans from small cities and large towns find the United States attractive. More American companies have been brought to the country by treaties like the North American Free Trade Agreement. The number of jobs created is not sufficient, and the wages are still low. Many people dream of moving to the “North” to make more money. Due to modern technology, infrastructure and enforcement, illegal immigration to the United States has become more difficult. Many illegal immigrants are able to get the help of a “coyote”, a smuggler, in order to cross the border and navigate the country. A vehicle is used to transport them from one location to another once they have reached a destination on American soil. They will be picked up by their family or friends and paid the “coyote fee”. Sometimes, the fee is paid in advance and sometimes, a deposit. The rest of the payment is due upon completion. Coyotes are generally well-informed about how to cross the border and what routes to take in order not to be detected. To deter coyotes, there are severe penalties, and fines for anyone caught smuggling illegal immigrants into America. They are often returned to Mexico for illegal immigrants who have been intercepted on their way to the United States.
Illegal immigrants and coyotes are trying to cross the border into Arizona more frequently. This is because of increased security at the border between Mexico and America near California. There are more illegal immigrants crossing the Arizona desert, especially in the summer months. They often die of dehydration. More U.S. border guards have been installed on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border. These checkpoints may ask for documentation to prove U.S. citizenship or residency. There are increasing security measures at the border between Mexico and America. It has become harder to illegally cross the border. The assistance of “coyotes”, or coyotes, is highly sought after. A “coyote fee” can easily run into the thousands for each person. This fee is often paid by illegal immigrants who borrow or save money. Two main goals are common for Mexican immigrants once they cross the border to the United States. They have two main goals. The first is to send a portion of their earnings home to their families. The second is to bring more relatives to the United States. They hope to eventually obtain permanent residency (green card) and U.S citizenship status. Others illegal immigrants have different goals. Others emigrated to America with the sole purpose of finding work that will enable them to purchase a home or start their own business. No matter what the intentions of the Mexican immigrant are, most agree that they are seeking a better life in America.
