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Illegal immigration has remained a contentious issue for public representatives and lawmakers in developed countries. People from developing nations and third-world countries manage to make their way to countries, such as the US and the UK, looking for better opportunities. They enter these countries without proper documentation or state approval and are referred to as illegal or undocumented immigrants.
The US is notorious for its crackdown on undocumented immigrants. It maintains a fairly strict policy on illegal immigration and chooses to detain and deport them to countries of which they are natural citizens. As of 2022, an estimated 46+ million foreign-born people are residing in the US. Of these, 11.6 million are believed to be undocumented. This means 1 out of 4 immigrants in the US is living without valid immigration documents.
Can Children Of Undocumented Immigrants Receive Formal Education?
The short answer is yes. Children of undocumented immigrants in the US are eligible to receive public-funded education. The Supreme Court, in a landmark judgment in 1982, had ruled that all children on American soil, irrespective of their immigration status, are entitled to receive public education. The court observed that the states and legislatures should not deprive children of undocumented parents living in America of education in public schools and colleges. The ruling was delivered on a petition challenging a Texas law denying funds to educate children of undocumented immigrants.
According to reports, there could be up to one million (10 lakh) undocumented immigrant children in the US. These children do not have access to the same educational opportunities and facilities as those enjoyed by the citizens of America. There are several challenges to educating them, despite the supreme court ruling in their favor.
Immigrant children live in constant fear of deportation. Judges, lawmakers, and non-government institutions have advocated formal schooling for such children on the grounds that it is the responsibility of civil society. It has been argued that without education, children may choose a path of violence and crime. This makes communities less safe. A good education strengthens their employment prospects and allows them to serve the country as any other citizen would.
Most undocumented immigrant children do not opt for a college education because they are unable to apply for student loans. The US was built by immigrants. Justice demands they show empathy toward the children of undocumented immigrants and give them hope for a better future.
FAQs
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Who are undocumented immigrants?
People entering a country without state approval are referred to as illegal immigrants or undocumented immigrants.
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How many undocumented immigrant children does the US currently have?
There are more than 11 million undocumented immigrants in the US. Of these, around 1 million are estimated to be children.
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Do undocumented children have a right to public education?
The US Supreme Court has ruled that every child, irrespective of his/her immigration status, is entitled to public education.
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Why are undocumented children reluctant to enroll in higher education?
Undocumented immigrants live illegally in a country. They fear deportation and detainment and are reluctant to apply for a college education.
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What is the argument against schooling undocumented children?
It is argued that public funds meant for citizens’ welfare are diverted to undocumented immigrants and their families. Also, maintaining such a huge population is a financial burden.
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