Despite the Trump administration’s harsh anti-immigrant rhetoric, raids across the country, thousands of daily arrests, and accelerated deportations in recent months, immigrants in the United States are determined to stay. This was revealed by the survey conducted at national level by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), in which there was the collaboration of The New York Times. Between the The 1,805 consulted included naturalized aliens, legal permanent residents and undocumented immigrants.
The study reveals that the Government’s determination to carry out the largest deportation in history is comparable to that of foreigners who defend their life plan in the country. In this sense, a large majority say that their future and that of their family remains promising, despite Washington’s aggressive immigration policy.
Nearly 80%, including the majority of the undocumented, say they feel they are on the path to achieving the American dream or have already achieved it. Additionally, 70% commented that if they could go back in time, they would emigrate to the United States again. This same percentage believes that their financial situation living in North America is better than what they had in their home countries. This opinion is repeated when talking about their work situation (65%), as well as the educational opportunities they can now offer their children (74%). It is a position shared by those fleeing violent contexts, marked by poverty and political repression. But half of the people consulted, including 62% of undocumented people, confess that since January this year it has become more difficult for them to earn a living.
The current government narrative almost always refers to immigrants as “newcomers.” Census Bureau data on the roots of this population belies this: more than 70% of migrants have lived in the country for 10 years or more, and more than 50% have US citizenship and speak fluent English.
The survey reflects the deterioration of the United States’ image as a welcoming nation, traditionally labeled for its ethnic and cultural diversity. 60% of those interviewed believe that this openness is a thing of the past. This view is shared especially by Latin Americans and Asians. Those of European descent are more likely to say the United States remains open to immigration.
The aforementioned optimism is tempered when the study highlights the consequences the White House deportation campaign has had on migrants. About half – including 82% of undocumented people – confirmed they were scared and angry about immigration enforcement. 41% also fear that a family member could be arrested or deported at any time. The KFF organization points out that two years ago, in a context of more permissive immigration by the Biden administration, this percentage was only 26%. In short, concerns about expulsions among citizens and non-citizens have increased, both those who are in the country legally and those who are not.
Contradictions and conflicts between communities were not excluded from the study results. 40% think Republican immigration policies are “necessary” and 15% feel “proud” of them. This group is led by foreigners with decades of residency in the country and U.S. citizenship. 30% of undocumented immigrants also believe greater control over immigration is necessary.
