Push & Pull Factors Just as the people of the 1800’s did, the people of Mexico today continue to face political, social, and economic hardships, with the addition of environmental concerns. “El Norte” (Takaki, 2008, p. 292) still holds a certain allure. The hope for a better life, present and future and the belief that America is the key ignites the American Dream within. Inspired by the seemingly endless opportunities that await, they escape the despair of their homeland, and begin the journey. Various factors push immigrants from Mexico and pull them to America. To begin, I would like to explain what a push and pull factor is. A push factor relates to the country of origin. Typically, a push factor is a problem or flaw that drives a person to leave. A pull
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Poverty links hand in hand with unemployment; another strong push factor. In 2009, the rate of unemployment “rose by 34.43%” (Jackson, n.d.) forcing many families to seek employment elsewhere. Unfortunately, due to the condition of the weak economy not many jobs were available. For those considering migration north, the knowledge that in America they could obtain a minimum wage job created one more push/pull factor. For the most part, immigrants commonly accept menial jobs that most Americans reject, such as a busser, car wash attendant, garbage collector, janitor, gardener, cook etc. This creates a sense of security for the migrant knowing there will be a way to provide for their family when they arrive. Yet another push factor from Mexico are scarce educational opportunities. As would any parent, immigrant parents want what is best for their children. Most Mexican children are not educated past the age of 14 and the literacy rate in Mexico is just over 85% (Jackson, n.d). Although the immigrant child in America may only attend school until the age of 16, the literacy rate for them in the United States is 99% (Jackson, n.d.). Finally, environmental concerns push people from Mexico and
Poverty links hand in hand with unemployment; another strong push factor. In 2009, the rate of unemployment “rose by 34.43%” (Jackson, n.d.) forcing many families to seek employment elsewhere. Unfortunately, due to the condition of the weak economy not many jobs were available. For those considering migration north, the knowledge that in America they could obtain a minimum wage job created one more push/pull factor. For the most part, immigrants commonly accept menial jobs that most Americans reject, such as a busser, car wash attendant, garbage collector, janitor, gardener, cook etc. This creates a sense of security for the migrant knowing there will be a way to provide for their family when they arrive. Yet another push factor from Mexico are scarce educational opportunities. As would any parent, immigrant parents want what is best for their children. Most Mexican children are not educated past the age of 14 and the literacy rate in Mexico is just over 85% (Jackson, n.d). Although the immigrant child in America may only attend school until the age of 16, the literacy rate for them in the United States is 99% (Jackson, n.d.). Finally, environmental concerns push people from Mexico and