Immigration Detention Centers: Implications for Social Work

Abstract

This article examines the dilemmas faced by undocumented immigrants within the criminal justice system vis-à-vis the immigrant detention center and the resulting implications for social work. It explores the new realities for undocumented immigrants in the United States, including an explanation of state policies that have led to the criminalization of immigrants. The criminal justice and homeland security responses to undocumented immigrants, including the trend toward the privatization of immigration detention centers are analyzed. Finally, the implications of these trends for social work practice are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• immigration
• immigration detention
• Latinos

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Rich Furman

Rich Furman, MSW, PhD, is professor of social work at the University of Washington Tacoma.

Alissa Ackerman

Alissa Ackerman, PhD, is an assistant professor of criminal justice at the University of Washington Tacoma.

Michelle Sanchez

Michelle Sanchez, BA, is a graduate student in interdisciplinary arts and sciences at the University of Washington Tacoma.

Doug Epps

Doug Epps, BASW, is a graduate student of social work in the University of Washington Tacoma.