Providing Access to Immigrant Workforce Services in a Tumultuous Environment: Partnerships and Practices

Abstract

The immigrant labor force in the United States has been under extreme pressure since the new administration took office in January 2017 and immediately began implementing policies designed to encourage deportation, negatively incent immigrants to return to their home countries, and dramatically reduce legal and unauthorized entry into the United States. This paper examines the efforts of organizations that support immigrants in their desire to gain and maintain a productive role in the U.S. workforce in the current tumultuous environment. Representatives on the front lines narrate their uphill battle to lift immigrant workers out of fear. Interviews and surveys with agencies in four counties located in the Mid-Hudson Valley region of upstate New York tell the story of an advocacy movement that has breathed new energy into the organizations and empowered workers. Key findings include the positive impact collaborations can have in providing practical support and advocating for policy change, as well as the importance of establishing trust between agencies and immigrants.