Multnomah Counties solution to crime: Teach them how to do it better

A needs and assets assessment of the Hispanic community of Multnomah County

The hidden world of undocumented workers and the informal economy
As described elsewhere in this report, being undocumented
means that:

*The best jobs are usually unavailable.
*Living in poverty is likely.
*Segregated housing is more likely.
*It is more difficult to learn English, given isolation status.
*Many educational opportunities are not available.
*Children, may believe there are few reasons to stay in school.
*The best opportunities may not be in formal employment, but
rather informal activities.

Uh, no... being "undocumented" means that you are breaking multiple laws. You are in this country illegaly. You are a criminal.

Informal activities are different from criminal ones in that they include goods and services that are legal, but whose production and marketing are unregulated and untaxed.

That's how it's different than criminals activities. It is very similair to criminal activities in the fact that it's... wait for it... A CRIME! Again, they can't work legally, they committ perjury on their I-9 and then fraud and ID theft on their W-4. Then they commit tax evasion and various violations of regulations.

But the criminal element of this is not a problem for Multnomah County, the problem for them is that these criminals are being exploited! And their solution to this problem?

Employment recommendations
Outcome:
To increase opportunities for Latinos/Latinas to own small businesses
or micro-enterprise ventures.

Examples of micro-enterprises include; landscape maintenance, childcare, personal and residential services.

Increase availability of literacy and ESL classes to fit the needs of community such as through provision of childcare, evening hours, transportation and easy community access.

No word on whether or not there will be drinking fountains labeled "Latinos only" in Multnomah County.