Voices from Detention: An Exploration of Undocumented Immigrants' Journeys

• In Event: Challenging Perceptions: Rethinking Detainees, Former Prisoners, Human Rights and Dispute Resolution

Abstract

Distinct differences exist between the phrases "criminal" and "undocumented immigrant," yet the current social milieu in the United States has elevated the term of "Crimmigration" to the level of daily national conversation. This study seeks to contribute to the somewhat limited field of research on illegal immigration by giving voice to those who commit such "offenses." Through exploration and analysis of their personal accounts of commonalities and differences in their experiences leading up to their detention, findings can contribute to current illegal immigration policy, as well as serve as an avenue to humanizing those caught up in the ever-increasing "crimmigation" of immigration in the United States by giving a rather voice to those who actually commit these 'offenses.'

Authors

• Michaela Malboeuf, Longwood University

• Connie M. Koski, Longwood University