Liberty’s Silent Tears

By Niya Bobban

Standing tall and bright in New York Harbor is the Statue of Liberty -- the mother of Exiles –- where the statue once held a torch to guide those who came with nothing but a dream. Yet, now, her presence is only a reminder of an unfulfilled promise, and the topic of immigration has only seen regression in our changing politics.

Immigrant women, especially, are at a greater risk of exploitation, violence, and trafficking during their migration journey.  With Trump’s new policies regarding immigration control and mass deportation, it not only dehumanizes those seeking refuge but we forget to realize the importance of immigration in America.

Why do we need immigration? Immigration has been the backbone of America’s progress; Bushcenter.org reveals that the benefits of immigration heavily outweigh the costs. They fuel our economy and boost innovation, and the 50 million immigrants residing in America have contributed to the rising GDP and higher employment rates. Research has also shown that immigrants are two times as likely to start a business than a native-born citizen.

Immigration, not only being an economic benefit, but also is reflection of America’s number one core value—freedom and opportunity. They bring a difference, a difference we need to unify our country and promote progress; without them, America would not uphold the values our founding fathers once stood for.

Immigrant women have often gone unnoticed in broader debates, and yet they experience the most treacherous journey when migrating and living in America. They face exploitation and abuse, but they still have the will to put up with it in hopes of having a better life for themselves and their children; this is the female face of migration, Caritas.org says. Women, especially immigrants, are more vulnerable than men when falling victim to deception— they become the prime targets of trafficking and violence . They are being denied of healthcare and the mere right of protection. Immigrant women’s desire for opportunity has only been diminishing, and the Trump Administration is only going to make the process worse.

Immigrants have constantly been demonized, and under Trump’s administration, the definition of immigration has shifted from an opportunity to a perceived danger. When we hear the word “immigrant,” we no longer think of the American dream being achieved. Instead, the word has been clouded with fear, stereotypes, and divisive rhetoric. The Statue of Liberty now stands with silent tears, and its' cries are identical to the women being shut out of the American Dream.

The need to reshape the conversation around immigration is dire, and we have to change our focus to the humanity and ethics of those who come to America. Immigrants are not problems to be solved but people with stories to be heard and talents to be recognized.