A new study on immigrant contributions at the University of Southern California has revealed that undocumented immigrants in California make up 10% of the workforce and contribute $130 billion to the gross domestic product, the LA Times reported.
The study, conducted in conjunction with the California Immigrant Policy Center, explores the various ways that the estimated 2.6 million immigrants who lack legal status participate in state life, with a particular focus on their contributions to the state's GDP. The study found that most immigrant workers lack basic civil rights protections and are faced with the daily threat of family separation and deportation due to the federal government's inability to create a "rational immigration system."
Other key findings in the report with respect to undocumented immigrants in California include:
And yet, CIPC says the undocumented immigrant population in California has suffered some 117,000 deportations in recent years from one deportation program alone.
- 58% do not have health insurance
- 38% work in the agriculture industry
- Half have been in the state for at least 10 years
- Three quarters live in households that include U.S. citizens
- Of the 4.4 million immigrants living in the greater L.A. region, 1.1 million are undocumented, contributing $57 billion to the regional GDP
Comment: It is not enough to awaken social consciousness, we must also awaken social responsibility. Obviously the U.S. congress doesn't have either, especially if they are rulled by Israeli propaganda and U.S. corporate profit while closing their minds, eyes and hearts to civil atrocities such as the blatant slaughter in Gaza. It is not enough to disagree, have druthers, or disown one's government, one has to stand up and be accountable to the change that is pleading to be made. If the only thing you can do is put the message out there...DO IT.