New Beginnings: Immigrant Women

Saturday March 2, 2019

Women immigrants have played a dynamic role in transforming America socially, politically and economically. Women historically have accounted for almost fifty percent of immigrants and currently exceed that. Women’s motivations for migration have been varied and complex. Gender has influenced migrant women’s choices to immigrate as well as their opportunities and challenges upon arrival.

Today there are more than 20 million immigrant women and girls in the United States making up 52% of recent immigrants. Nearly 12 million immigrant (foreign-born) women are workers in the United States today, comprising just over 7 percent of the total labor force. They are a formidable presence in U.S. society and the U.S. economy. Immigrant women workers are found at both ends of the educational spectrum; just over one-third have a bachelor’s degree or more, while more than two-fifths have a high-school diploma or less. Immigrant women work in every occupation and despite their hard work and educational achievements, immigrant women earn less than foreign-born men, and less than native-born men or women.

Statistics alone, do not tell the story of immigration, people do. Since its inception, this nation has been continually infused with the energy of newcomers. Yet their assimilation has seldom been smooth. The challenges faced today are not new, only the stories are. Sharing their stories with us will be a group of fascinating women who came to this country and are making their impact felt. Chanden Chance serves as President of United Nations Association, Organizing Group Long Beach – South Bay. Sandy Grigsby is a personal brand portrait photographer, author, and motivational speaker. Gaia Valentino was born in Avellino, Italy and now works in sales and marketing. Bianca Vobecky is the Founder, President & CEO of Vobecky Enterprises, Inc., a business dedicated to providing construction, construction management and nationwide trucking services. Join us on Saturday March 2 for another impactful meeting designed to allow immigrant women’s stories to be heard.