September 3, 2009
Opportunity is what brought many immigrants to seek work in the U.S. So what happens when opportunities are bleaker thanks to a recession? Some studies indicated that a few immigrants have returned home, and many others have chosen not to migrate at this time. But the majority of immigrants here have decided to “tough it out.”
For immigrant workers, tough economic times are nothing new. Many grew up with little opportunities and poor paying jobs, if they could even find them. So surviving a U.S. recession is often a matter of adjustment. As contributor Eliza Barclay reports, some immigrants try to pick up “odd jobs” while others create their own small businesses.
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Girl From Empanada
Paula Tejeda owns the 'Chile Lindo' Empanada Bakery, but spends Friday nights selling them in bars and on the street. (Photo by Myleen Hollero.)
One of the many ways that workers are trying to get ahead in these tough economic times is to create their own small businesses. While there are many challenges to creating new ventures, this alternative is often best suited to the strong work ethic that many Latinos bring when they come to this country and inspire in their children.
In San Francisco, reporter Robynn Takayama found a daughter of Chilean immigrants who once owned her own business but left that behind to get her college degree. Instead of entering the shaky job market after graduation, she decided to reopen her old business. Her name is Paula Tejeda. But she’s better known as the “Girl from Empanada.”
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To listen to and watch a related slideshow produced by Robynn Takayama, click on the photo below.
Music & Spirituality with Santero
Santero's new release is titled 'El Hijo de Obatala.' (Photo courtesy of Bethanie Hines.)
San Francisco Bay Area artist
Santero has performed extensively throughout the United States and Latin America as an Emcee/Composer and DJ/Producer. Fusing his santería religious sensibilities with music, Santero’s desire to create music inspired him to experiment and venture abroad to explore the world of music in all it colors and flavors. He set out as an Emcee and before long became interested in production and the technical side of creation.
Santero is currently touring the U.S. to support the release of his second CD titled El Hijo de Obatala. And he spoke with Latino USA’s Maria Hinojosa about music, religion, performing, and his inspirations.
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