Arizona witnesses Hispanic exodus ahead of immigration law implementation

Filed in archive Americas on June 9, 2010

© Beverly & Pack

Arizona's new tough immigration enforcement law goes into effect on July 29 but it has already started to lead to departure of Hispanics from the state. Though precise figures are not available but worried Hispanics, both legal and illegal are leaving the state in anticipation of the law. Schools in Hispanic areas have already reported an unusual drop in enrollment.

They are moving to states where they feel more comfortable. In 2007, around 100,000 illegal immigrants left Arizona after the state passed a law which increased penalties on businesses which hired them. Even businesses serving Hispanic community are having a tough time as illegal immigrants are holding on to their cash fearing exodus from the state.

The law which is expected to come into force has already led to a lot of furore and all are waiting with crossed fingers as to what will happen next.