Poll on Women Immigrants to America

The story of migration is no longer a man’s story, it is increasingly a woman’s tale. Traditionally males migrated and sent money home to their families. Now nearly 50% of migrants are women. Women are migrating, not as lone individuals but as members (even heads) of families and are determined to keep family bonds intact even as they adapt to new cultures. These immigrant women came to America, not for the money, but they saw the US as a place to build better futures for their children, and to make permanent homes for their families. At a time when more than one-third of US families are single-parent households, 90% of women immigrants are raising children in intact marriages.

The poll of 1,102 respondents of Latin Americans, Vietnamese, Korean and Chinese women found that they radically altered their roles in their private lives. Almost one-third report having assumed head-of-household responsibilities or sharing equally with their husbands the decision-making on everything from household finances to family planning. Moreover, the poll found that the overwhelming majority said they had become more assertive at home and in public after moving to America.

These women face formidable challenges. Many speak little or no English and face anti-immigrant discriminations. They lack healthcare and have low-paying employment, well below the status of the professional work many did in their home countries.

This research data will be instrumental in helping the members of the public and support organizations understand not only the plight of women immigrants, but how government policy can improve the quality of life for them and their families. This study can help as we engage our country in meaningful discussions around comprehensive immigration reform, which must address the issues affecting immigrant women and their children.

To view the entire poll click HERE.