Young Immigrants: Experiences and Reactions after the U.S. Presidential Election

Background and Purpose: Immigration was a controversial topic of the 2016 Presidential Election. Many studies have focused on the reactions, views, and political involvement of young voters during this past election, but less attention has focused on the experiences of young immigrants. This study helps to address this gap by exploring how highly disadvantaged young immigrants—defined as undocumented, limited English-proficient, and from low-income households— experienced the 2016 Presidential Election, and what implications they see this election may have for them and their future.

Methods: In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with sixteen young immigrants (ages 18 to 23). The sample was predominately female (63%) and Latino (94%). As part of a larger longitudinal study, respondents were recruited from one school in a southeastern state. The interviews took place a year after respondents graduated from high school, and explored respondents’ educational and employment trajectories, experiences and reactions towards the presidential elections, and also implications of the election results on their future. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Using NVivo software, a constant comparative approach was used between and within transcripts while coding. To support the study’s trustworthiness, analysis was conducted by two team members to reduce researcher bias; substantial quotes are featured to augment the study’s credibility.       

Results: Respondents described different reactions towards the election outcomes, which were primarily influenced by their immigration status. Common themes among undocumented respondents were: fear of detention, deportation, or separation from loved ones, barriers to higher education and future work opportunities, and uncertainty about their future. Incidents of anti-immigrant sentiment were mentioned. Many respondents, regardless of status, reported becoming more interested in political matters after the new president took office. A “wait and see” attitude was also observed.

DACA recipients (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) expressed particular concern about the possibility of the program ending, and the impact it would have on their opportunities to access higher education or to integrate into the workforce. Despite having trusted social support networks, respondents expressed difficulty sharing feelings of fear and hopelessness with them. Difficulty elaborating on their sense of identity and belonging was observed. Few formal structures existed to provide support specific to their circumstances.

Conclusions and Implications: The results of the presidential election have left some young immigrants with feelings of shock and disillusionment. Uncertainty about the immediate future adds to their existing concerns. Young immigrants encounter increased barriers to social mobility after high school graduation, therefore, formal structures are increasingly needed to provide consistent, wide-spread information and support specific to their unique circumstances.

By identifying the sentiments, concerns, and challenges of young immigrants, this study contributes to our understanding of the potential impact of social isolation among this population – impact that is exacerbated by rhetoric, electoral politics, and the democratic process.