Immigrants today face harsher socioeconomic conditions compared to their predecessors. While there are a lot more opportunities and initiatives for immigrants, the prevalent racism, income divide, and higher cost of living have made it difficult for people to maintain a decent standard of living. Here are a few ways income inequality affects Miami’s immigrant population.
Declining Wages
The biggest issue immigrants face regarding income disparity is declining wages. While the amount remains the same, the ever-increasing inflation and the skyrocketing cost of living in Florida have made it difficult for people to afford basic necessities. This inflation is showing no signs of stopping anytime soon. So the income divide will only get bigger, and immigrants will continue to be one of the badly affected groups in Miami.
Lack Of Opportunities
With a limited educational background and no opportunities for skill development, immigrants also have to deal with a lack of opportunities. While there are skill development initiatives in Miami, the number of people enrolling in such programs remains low. This is because people need minimum-wage jobs to make ends meet, and there’s no time left to learn and develop new skills.
Racism
Racism is still a prominent issue in the US, mainly in Miami, which houses one of the largest immigrant populations in the US. This prevalent racism prevents talented and hardworking people from finding good jobs. Additionally, immigrant-run small businesses also receive less business due to this. Racism makes it harder for immigrants to find opportunities that help them improve their economic and financial standing. Even if an opportunity arises, racism in the workplace also plays a huge role in the turnover ratio of immigrant workers.
Cheap Labor
Businesses in Miami usually hire immigrants because they’re considered cheap labor. Due to a lack of college education, and a low-income background, many immigrants settle for low wages. But that’s not all; some businesses use under-the-table payments to pay immigrants wages lower than minimum wage. However, asking for a raise is out of the question for such people because businesses don’t document their employment, and several others are willing to work in the same condition to feed their families.
No Skill Development
Due to the nature of jobs available for immigrants in Miami, it’s harder for them to move from minimum-wage jobs to ones that pay better. While minimum wage jobs are good for making ends meet, they don’t offer any skill development that can help immigrants progress in their careers. Moreover, with minimum wage jobs, it’s harder for people to afford a college education, which, in the US, comes with a hefty price tag.
Learn More About Support Programs For Immigrants In Miami With Helping Miami
At Helping Miami, we are committed to making Miami-Dade County a better community for its citizens. This includes helping immigrant families fight economic disparity and income inequality. We also help educate people and guide them through mental health resources, educational resources, and autism awareness programs. So read our blogs to learn more.