Ethnic enclaves, which at first can appear to be a saving grace for immigrants – a secure place to work in America, yet remain faithful to their culture – can in fact prove to be a ineffective solution to their difficult transition. Jobs in ethnic enclaves are often available, yet offer low wages, harsh conditions, and no sign of promotion. The jobs, although “safe,” and what Bohon in Sullivan’s article calls, “bounded solidarity,” may quickly create restraints for immigrants searching for prosperity in the land of opportunity. Although feeling comfortable, and “at home” by remaining in what they know, immigrants set themselves, and their possible future generations, at a disadvantage for not infiltrating into the American system. By staying away from learning skills and assimilating into “American” cultural viewpoint, immigrants in ethnic enclaves limit themselves and their future opportunities. Guest eloquently says that ethnic enclaves are traps, which leave immigrants “marginalized by language, culture, and class from both the mainstream U.S. economy and…have no way to escape.” What could appear to be an immediate solution and easy fix, will most likely result in a challenging dilemma for future advancement and progression.
– Kristy Timms
