Youth at Risk Mexican Americans Mexican immigrant parents

“Youth at Risk” Mexican Americans

Mexican immigrant parents Two different worlds More American the American and More Mexican the Mexican

1942 Mexican immigrant farm workers This is when it started after the Mexican revolution of 1910 where their government was unable to improve lives for the citizens Family separation in search of a better life.

Families torn between two worlds Father leaves for a better future Family structure changes

Culture shock for the immigrant Feel of lost, confusion , unsure, unclear. Makes it difficult and extra stressful for Mexican youth which contributes to their upbringing once here in the U. S.

Different worlds for the youth What it used to be What is like now

Both parents work When the parents arrive to the U. S both have the need to work in order to afford everyday expenses like everyone else. (The American Dream) But at what cost. What does this way of living do to our youth. Is this why they become “Youth at risk”? YES.

Youth at risk, children of undocumented immigrants: Victims of the immigration policies and regulations Americanized Out of place Can not work legally once they graduate high school Can not get financial aid nor a good paying job due to their legal status Confused and lost because of this legal status Living in the shadows are their parents Many get discouraged and take a path of crime, drugs , alcoholism Vicious circle Feelings of hopelessness and not belonging

Help these youth at risk Coming up with a good effective immigration reform. Stop separating families Help the student go to college Immigrants contribute to the economy Buy cars, houses, pay taxes Fixing this will have a huge impact in the lives of these youth group at risk.