2005•Journal of Social Distress and the HomelessRequires access
On the Sidelines of Society: Chinese Illegal Immigrants in the United States
Robert J. Kelly, Ko-lin Chin-a
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Abstract
Estimates on the number of illegal immigrants in the U.S. vary widely. Claims range anywhere from 4 million to 17 million. Each year more than a million legal immigrants enter the country in addition to around 3 millions illegal ones. Because of a number of difficulties there is no solid evidence these numbers are reliable. China is believed to be the largest source of illegal immigrant trafficking. Aliens from here will often spend short periods of time living and working in countries of transit such as Mexico and Thailand. The People Republic of China (PRC) reports that at any one time, hundreds to thousands of Chinese immigrants are in transit. This process is made easier by “snakeheads,” the criminal organizations that organize and service the flow of aliens while providing jobs, housing, and false documentation. The present study was conducted among illegal Chinese aliens in New York City to assess social and psychological adjustments. Participants were administered in-depth interviews pertaining to housing, friendships, job opportunities and the role of snakeheads. It was found that the road out of China was anything but smooth, even for those who had money. Those who were successful usually had knowledge of someone from the local community who had already succeeded in leaving. In addition, smuggling networks had to be available and there needed to be a connection already in the host society. Their desperation to leave China often made the easy victims. There were reports of handing over fees in excess of 30,000 to consultants who promised to handle the paper work. After arriving to the USA, there were struggles in establishing business success stemming from government regulations, labor laws and higher taxes. Those who failed remained optimistic. Some even continued to run businesses in China and after flying back and forth between the countries became known as “astronauts.” The time apart from family often led to affairs and broken homes.