NCJ Number
216664
Journal
Journal of Emotional Abuse Volume: 6 Issue: 2/3 Dated: 2006 Pages: 61-76
Date Published
2006
Length
16 pages
Annotation
After reviewing the history of Mexico-United States relations, this article discusses implications for social-work practice with Mexican clients who have entered the United States illegally.
Abstract
When the Spanish invaded the land now known as Mexico, there were two Indian tribes inhabiting the country. The Spanish viewed these tribes as inferior to themselves, and the Spanish conquerors raped and violated the natives. The children born from these rapes became known as Mestizos. Upon gaining its independence from Spain, the new country called itself Mexico. Discrimination against Mestizos and native people continued, and corruption in Mexico contributed to persistent poverty in Mexico, particularly among Mestizos. An abundance of jobs in the Southwestern United States became and still is a motivating factor for Mexicans to migrate in great numbers into the United States, as many cross the border illegally and establish residence in the United States. Children born to illegal immigrants in the United States become American citizens who qualify for government services available to all citizens. In providing social services to Mexican clients, social workers must comply with agency policy on delivering services to clients who are in the country illegally. Clinicians must be knowledgeable about current immigration policy and the availability of public benefits for illegal immigrants. Immigration law and policy are the basis for determining eligibility for services. If legal issues are involved, clients should be referred to legal-aid providers. Helping clients to obtain lawful immigration status is the first step in making them eligible for public benefits. Since the children of illegal immigrants are citizens, social workers must be willing to help their parents guide the children into the educational system and receive the appropriate educational services. 23 references