The Journey of Undocumented Child Immigrants From Central America

Abstract

The project will be specifically focused on a unique immigrant population, undocumented minors, who come to the United States from different parts of the world; particularly from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. The purpose of this oral history research is to explore, understand and describe the dangerous and uncertain journey these undocumented minors have to embark on in hope of a better future. This study aims to uncover the push and pull factors that are motivating this particular group to migrate to the U.S, taking into consideration that many of them have undergone to escape war, violence, gang-related harassment, abuse, neglect, abandonment, poverty, and lack of opportunity in their home countries. My main focus is to shed a light on the stories these children share about their journeys to the U.S. To highlight that, I have interviewed 6 participants that were screened for eligibility. These stories give the project a sense of understanding as to why these children are desperate to leave their home country and why we should feel the need to do something to help them. It was an honor to work with them as I identify as one of those children hoping for a better future.