The Impact of Networks and the Context of Reception on Asset Accumulation Strategies of Latino Newcomers in New Settlement Communities of the Midwest

Abstract

The heartland of America is experiencing unprecedented demographic changes as more Latino newcomers move to rural communities. Our goal is to understand the factors that contribute to the integration and economic contributions of Latino newcomers to the Midwest, using a sustainable livelihood strategies model to focus especially on the roles of identity, acculturation, social capital, and context of reception. Several preliminary analyses presented in this paper will inform the development of a large-scale household survey of newcomers to examine their settlement patterns and asset accumulation strategies. These analyses are designed to identify factors that facilitate the integration of newcomers, focusing on the immigrants themselves and the resources that they bring to the integration process, using two approaches. The first uses 2000 Census data to explore the impact of acculturation, social capital, and an aspect of context of reception, community climate, on income generation. The second uses focus groups to engage men and women newcomers from communities in three regions of Missouri in an exploration of the context of reception

Do parent–child acculturation gaps affect early adolescent Latino alcohol use? A study of the probability and extent of use

“…From an ecological perspective [31], these contextual influences suggest that acculturation processes among immigrant families in new arrival communities differ from those in families living in established Latino enclaves [32]. …”

Women of courage: Leadership experiences of female Nigerian immigrants in Texas

“…Limited English proficiency and differing required occupational skills in the host country are primary reasons some immigrants could not obtain employment commensurate with native education and experience (Valdivia et al, 2008). Despite barriers to higher-paying employment, many immigrant workers seem to be highly motivated and very productive (Woodward, 2008).…”

“…Immigrants migrate to other countries with the aspiration of making a new and better start in life (Henry & Kemp, 2002;Segal & Mayadas, 2005) and enjoying political and religious freedom (Partridge, Rickman, & Ali, 2008). Immigrants migrate to a host country with native cultural, educational, and employment experiences (Valdivia et al, 2008). Immigrant women also migrate to other countries with aspirations to have better opportunities than in their original native country (Paris, 2008).…”

“…To adjust to a new culture and a new environment, immigrants undergo the stress of acculturation (Valdivia et al, 2008). Immigrants face a dilemma in maintaining cultural and ethnic identity and acclimatizing with the new environment ( Valdivia et al).…”

“…Limited English proficiency and differing occupational skills requirements in the home country were the primary reasons some immigrants could not obtain employment commensurate with native education and experience ( Valdivia et al, 2008). Bauder (2005) posited that limited English proficiency and differing host country occupational skill requirements affect opportunities for immigrant women in leadership positions.…”