The Ethnic Enclaves: Sanctuary or Impediment? Article poses the question of whether ethnic enclaves economically benefit the immigrant communities. There seems to be no clear-cut line when it comes to different groups. The most notable contrast is between the thriving Cuban enclave in Miami and the low-income Mexican laborers in Los Angeles. Despite whether the enclave offers economic benefits, there is a vicious cycle that keeps immigrants in the enclave. Many immigrants are low income. They find a low paying job and never feel the need to learn English or seek an education. This reminds me of the often experienced vicious cycle that lower income Americans live. They cannot find a job because they do not have an education. They cannot get an education because they do not have money. They do not have money because they cannot find a job. While financial aid and loans do help students, just as governmentally funded English language courses are available to immigrants, there are still many people who do not take on the hassle of the endeavors. Perhaps it is because there are not enough language courses or financial aid to go around. Sometimes, especially when you do not have a family to support you, it is easier to be penny-wise and spend your time working for a low wage, than to survive off nothing while you spend your time getting an education.
Stephanie Azzopardi
