Immigrant Latinos in central Illinois offer glimpses into their lives
Published: Feb. 10, 2011
Source: Angela Wiley, 217-265-5279, awiley@illinois.edu
Immigrant Latinos in five central Illinois rural counties exhibit a resilience that is rooted in their family ties and culture despite the challenges they are facing in a new country, says a University of Illinois report.
“Surprisingly, the rural Latinos we surveyed say they don’t encounter discrimination frequently, and most report being satisfied and having the important things they want in life,” said Angela Wiley, a U of I associate professor of applied family studies and a lead investigator on The Latino Families in Central Illinois Project.
“This positive outlook exists although most remain near the poverty line even if they’ve lived and worked in an area for 10 years or more. Whatever their challenges here, consumer goods are less expensive and incomes are steadier than they experienced in Mexico,” she added.
In terms of challenges, the respondents identified the lack of English classes that go beyond the beginner level and being able to find child care that meets their cultural expectations, is affordable, and is available during shift work, she said.
Why the urgent interest in rural Latino life? The Latino population in non-metropolitan parts of Illinois grew by 71 percent between 1990 and 2000 and continues to grow. In Champaign County alone, the number has more than doubled.
For the full article: http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/stories/news5583.html
Article by: Phyllis Picklesimer
phone: 217-244-2827; email: p-pickle@illinois.edu