The Power of Resilience – The Courage of Immigrant Women
CHALLENGES AND BARRIERS FACED BY IMMIGRANT WOMEN.
“That’s exactly what it was, I mean it’s like slavery, because that’s being in slavery and a
person who is constantly abusing you, who is beating you, who is psychologically abusing you,
who is telling you that you are nothing […] I know that many people go through this,
but I don’t wish it on anyone”.
-(Libertad, Iowa, United States, January 2009)
This is how Libertad, a Latina immigrant and survivor of domestic violence, described her experience of abuse in the United States. Violence has a detrimental physical, emotional and spiritual impact on survivors, as well as on those around them. However, experiencing this situation in a country to which many are forced to immigrate presents an additional challenge in the process of survival.
The proportion of women among international migrants has not changed significantly over the past 60 years. However, more and more women migrants are migrating independently for work, education or as heads of households. Despite these advances, female migrants may suffer more discrimination, be more vulnerable to mistreatment and experience double discrimination in their country of destination than male migrants because they are both women and migrants.
Likewise, migrant women are often affected by situations that affect their safety during their migratory trajectory. The conditions of vulnerability in which they find themselves in their countries of origin, transit or destination make them ideal victims of abuse, discrimination and human trafficking.
THE ROLE OF IMMIGRANT WOMEN IN THE COMMUNITY.
According to one study, of all migrants working informally, the majority (60%) are women. These women often experience their migration process in invisible situations, such as irregular status or informal employment, or even both circumstances simultaneously.
A key issue to be addressed is the problem that many of the women who migrate are dependents of married couples. This creates a dynamic of economic dependency and, at times, forces women to remain married for fear of losing their migration status, placing them in a position of greater vulnerability.
In order to ensure their survival in the country and to obtain the necessary economic resources for themselves and their families, many immigrants do everything possible to go unnoticed and remain invisible. In this context, activists have raised their voices to advocate for the provision of protection and support to women who are in the process of documentation or who lack documents, recognizing the importance of guaranteeing their rights and well-being during this vulnerable period.
IMMIGRATION RELIEF OPTIONS FOR IMMIGRANT WOMEN.
Immigrant women often face unique challenges and circumstances, which often require consideration of specific immigration relief options.
There are several types of immigration relief commonly offered to assist immigrant women, especially those who have been victims of violence or persecution, or who have special needs. Below are some options that are commonly available in several countries, including the United States:
Asylum and Refuge:
Asylum: Women who have suffered persecution or have a credible fear of persecution in their home country may apply for asylum in the United States. This includes cases of domestic violence and other forms of gender-based persecution.
Refugee: Similar to asylum but is applied for from outside the United States. Women facing threats of gender-based persecution may seek refuge.
U Visa (U-Visa):
The U-Visa is available to victims of certain crimes, including violent crimes and human trafficking. Women who have been victims of domestic violence, sexual assault or other crimes may be eligible if they cooperate with authorities in the investigation or prosecution.
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA):
Under VAWA, women who are victims of abuse by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse may apply for independent immigration status without the cooperation of the abuser.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA):
Although DACA is not specifically designed for women, it may be relevant to those who came to the United States as children. It provides temporary relief from deportation and work authorization.
T Visas:
T visas are designed for victims of human trafficking, and may be applicable to women who have been trafficked for the purpose of sexual exploitation or other forms of exploitation.
BRAVE WOMEN.
Migrant women are agents of change, bringing with them the richness of their cultures and experiences, enriching the diversity of the societies that welcome them.
They are mothers, daughters, sisters and leaders; each with a unique story of struggle and triumph. Their journey is a testament to boldness and courage. Their bravery teaches us about the strength of the human spirit and the ability to face adversity with grace. They remind us that, despite the odds, hope and determination can carry us through any barrier.
Let us celebrate the courage of migrant women, not only as survivors, but as pioneers of a more inclusive and compassionate future. May their resilience inspire us all to build bridges of understanding and solidarity, recognizing that, together, we are stronger.
OF THE NEXT STEP TOWARDS YOUR FUTURE IN THE UNITED STATES
Every immigration story is unique, marked by dreams, challenges and the relentless pursuit of a better tomorrow. At Mira Law Group, APC, we deeply understand the complexities of the U.S. immigration system and are here to illuminate your path to immigration relief.