Immigration law enforcement, social support, and health for Latino immigrant families in Southeastern Michigan. (July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Benavides, Quetzabel; Doshi, Monika; Valentín-Cortés, Mislael; Militzer, Maria; Quiñones, Spring; Kraut, Ruth; Rion, Raymond; Bryce, Richard; Lopez, William D.; Fleming, Paul J.
• Is Part Of: Social science & medicine. Volume 280(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07
• Subjects: Policing -- Deportation -- Detention -- Hispanic; Social medicine -- Periodicals; Medical anthropology -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Médecine sociale -- Périodiques; Anthropologie médicale -- Périodiques; Santé publique -- Périodiques; Psychologie -- Périodiques; Médecine -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 362.105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.114027
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0277-9536

Abstract

Abstract: Rationale: Social support is a key determinant of physical and mental health outcomes. Implementation of restrictive immigration policies in the U.S. under the Trump administration impacted the way mixed-status Latino families (i.e., those with varying legal statuses, including undocumented) maintained social relationships and provided social support. Objective: This paper examines how federal immigration policies introduced after the 2016 U.S. presidential election impacted social networks and support related to health for undocumented and mixed-status Latino families. Methods: We interviewed 23 clients and 28 service providers at two Federally Qualified Health Centers and one non-profit organization in Southeast Michigan. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. Results: Policies introduced during the Trump administration increased opportunities for deportation and contributed to the isolation of mixed-status Latino families by transforming safe spaces of social interaction into prime locations for immigration enforcement activity. Despite the limitations created by these restrictive policies, mixed-status families employed alternative mechanisms to maintain access to vital informal and formal support systems while simultaneously navigating emerging immigration-related threats. Conclusions: Elections have health consequences and immigration policies are needed that promote the health and well-being of Latino immigrant communities. Highlights: Introduction of "zero-tolerance" policies are fragmenting Latino social networks. Mixed-status Latino families experienced increased isolation after 2016 elections. Increased fear of deportation and separation impacted Latino mental health. Mixed-status Latino families are mobilizing and responding to emerging needs. Service providers are a source of social support for mixed-status Latino Families.