Immigration law enforcement, social support, and health for Latino immigrant families in Southeastern Michigan.

ABSTRACT

RATIONALE Social support is a key determinant of physical and mental health outcomes. Implementation of restrictive immigration policies in the U.S. under the Trump administration impacted the way mixed-status Latino families (i.e., those with varying legal statuses, including undocumented) maintained social relationships and provided social support. OBJECTIVE: This paper examines how federal immigration policies introduced after the 2016 U.S. presidential election impacted social networks and support related to health for undocumented and mixed-status Latino families. METHODS: We interviewed 23 clients and 28 service providers at two Federally Qualified Health Centers and one non-profit organization in Southeast Michigan. The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. RESULTS: Policies introduced during the Trump administration increased opportunities for deportation and contributed to the isolation of mixed-status Latino families by transforming safe spaces of social interaction into prime locations for immigration enforcement activity. Despite the limitations created by these restrictive policies, mixed-status families employed alternative mechanisms to maintain access to vital informal and formal support systems while simultaneously navigating emerging immigration-related threats. CONCLUSIONS: Elections have health consequences and immigration policies are needed that promote the health and well-being of Latino immigrant communities.