Mexican Immigration

Factors Behind Immigration POVERTY in Mexico – People look for a better way of life, high population causes high rates of poverty POOR EDUCATION system – people came to US to provide better opportunities for their children DRUG WARS – Since ,000 have lost lives to the drug conflicts POOR GOVERNMENT – Mexico’s government fights an uphill battle to improve the country and battle corruption…leaders have been ineffective at stopping corruption ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY – There are more jobs with better pay in the US

Poverty in Mexico In Mexico City, with a population of 105 million, it is estimated that 40% live in poverty. People flee Mexico in search of a better life.

Poor Education Since 2000, several initiatives were put in place to improve schools. Schools have since increased both enrollment and literacy rates. The poverty level causes obstacles for educational improvement. Mexicans can attend safer schools for longer.

Mexico’ Drug Production Cultivation of opium poppy and they produce 18 metric tons of pure heroin, or 50 metric tons of "black tar" heroin- Largest foreign supplier of Heroin to the US. Marijuana cultivation produces15,800 metric tons-Largest Foreign supplier of Marijuana. Mexico also transplants large amounts Methamphetamines, cocaine, and ecstasy

Beginning of the Crack Down Starting in 2006, President Felipe Calderon announced the Mexican Authorities would be cracking down on drug trafficking. Since 2006, 23,000 have lost their lives in violent conflicts, some in broad daylight. Fatalities are mounting up on both sides of the conflict.

Impact of the Drug War The Drug Wars pit Mexican Military and Government agencies against powerful drug cartels like La Familia. Violent conflicts take place in broad daylight and public centers putting innocent lives at risk. The nation’s lucrative tourist industry has been greatly impacted by this conflict. soHmI (12:25 60min. Video) soHmI

Poor Government The Government has been improving since the first party change in 61 years happened in They still battle corruption and mismanagement on all levels. There are reports of torture and kidnappings carried out by government agencies. Even though Mexicans can vote and have a voice in their political system, Mexicans flee for more rights and freedoms found in USA.

Newest Mexican President 2012 Mr. Peña Nieto has sent mixed messages about the drug-related violence that threatens Mexico and border areas in the United States Mr. Peña Nieto has a chance to restore his party’s reputation and do a lot of good for Mexico if he can deliver on his promises to make needed reforms, increase accountability, and end the bloodshed

US Crackdown Estimates of over 500,000 immigrants enter the US from Mexico. These figures represent both legal and illegal immigrants. The US has focused millions of dollars and huge amounts of manpower to bolster the fight against illegal immigration. Then there is Arizona…

So why do immigrants from Mexico come to USA? Better education Better health care Better job opportunities Better life for their children ANYTHING ELSE??

What is the impact Why is the number of immigrants important to US citizens? What could be the long term impact of increased immigration? Does it cost more for an illegal immigrant versus a legal immigrant?

The Debate Question What should be done involving the Immigration issue?