Between current conditions in Latin America and the outcome of our presidential election, the future of Latino immigration to America is certainly in question. Though Trump’s presidency would almost certainly breed an environment hostile towards Latinos, problems in Latin America abound. Furthermore, even amid a Trump presidency, opportunity in America remains highly promising. For these reasons, I firmly believe that though it may decrease, Hispanic immigration to the U.S. will continue under Trump’s administration.
It isn’t much of a secret that corruption is rampant throughout Latin America. What we often miss are the various impacts of corruption on Latin American countries such as the undermining of law, wasting of resources, decreased investments in the region, and the increased costs of doing business. In Latin America, one of corruption’s most lethal consequences is on the health and medical welfare of the people. It has been suggested that $28 billion are stolen or diverted from healthcare systems in Latin America every year. Bribes to government officials to avoid or prevent regulations foster medications that are more expensive and qualitatively inferior. Both activities lead to serious illness and death for those who can’t receive proper care or medication. One estimate states that 100,000 children in Latin America every year just because of substandard malaria medicine. By contrast, the healthcare system in the U.S. is not only wholly superior, but very enticing as well to potential Hispanic immigrants.
Today, Latin America also faces other large-scale issues, namely the future of employment, education, and attitudes toward climate change. In Latin America, 60% of the working age population work for a small company or own their own business. The U.S. represents a thriving business environment, particularly in the area of technology and the creativity technology often brings to the forefront of business. For immigrants looking to own their own business or seek employment with a small company, our country is an excellent place to turn. But in order to do either of these things, or to successfully be able to convert creativity into a reality, quality education is indispensable. Education in Latin America frequently falls short, whereas quality education in America is much more widely available. Lastly, though there are plenty of Americans who vociferously deny the validity of climate change, America’s scientific community is almost exclusively in agreement that it does exist. Additionally, this portion of the population holds considerable influence over politics and public perception.
Immigration has always been central to the population and makeup of America. Despite our current heading, there can be no doubt that it will continue for as long as the United States exists in the world.