Industries in Michigan Depend on Undocumented Immigrants
Undocumented immigrants play an important role in Michigan’s economy, filling critical jobs in a variety of industries that require a consistent workforce.
According to a University of Michigan study, these workers contribute significantly to the state’s productivity in fields such as agriculture and construction, despite facing legal and economic challenges. Here are some of Michigan’s key industries that rely on undocumented workers.
1. Agriculture
Michigan’s agricultural industry, valued at more than $100 billion per year, is heavily reliant on immigrant labor, including undocumented workers. The state is a leading producer of apples, cherries, blueberries, and asparagus, all of which require extensive manual labor.
– Many undocumented immigrants work as seasonal farm workers, harvesting crops under harsh conditions.
– Dairy farms, a major contributor to Michigan’s economy, also rely on undocumented workers to milk cows and maintain facilities.
– Without immigrant labor, farms would struggle to meet production demands, which could lead to higher food prices and labor shortages.
2. Construction
According to the America First Policy Institute, Michigan’s construction industry, particularly in urban areas such as Detroit and Grand Rapids, relies on immigrant labor for both skilled and unskilled work.
– Many undocumented workers work in physically demanding jobs like roofing, drywall installation, carpentry, and masonry.
– Due to a labor shortage in construction, immigrant workers are essential for completing residential and commercial projects on schedule.
– Despite their contributions, undocumented workers frequently face job insecurity and inadequate legal protections in the industry.
3. Food Processing & Manufacturing
Michigan has a significant food processing and manufacturing sector, with factories and meatpacking plants employing many undocumented workers.
– Immigrant labor is required in meatpacking plants and dairy processing facilities to handle production lines, sanitation, and packaging.
– The work is frequently repetitive and physically demanding, with long hours and potential hazards.
– Without these workers, food processing facilities would struggle to meet demand, potentially causing supply chain disruptions.
4. Hospitality & Service Industry
Hotels, restaurants, and cleaning services in Michigan rely on undocumented immigrants for essential jobs.
– Undocumented workers are frequently employed in hotel and resort housekeeping, particularly in tourist hotspots such as Traverse City and Mackinac Island.
– Many restaurants hire undocumented workers as cooks, dishwashers, and food prep workers, which are important but often overlooked.
– Landscaping companies rely on immigrant labor for seasonal lawn care and maintenance.
5. Home Health Care & Domestic Work
With Michigan’s aging population, the demand for home health aides and caregivers has increased dramatically. Many undocumented immigrants care for the elderly and disabled.
– They help seniors with daily activities like bathing, cooking, and housekeeping, allowing them to stay in their homes.
– Due to labor shortages in this field, undocumented workers play an important role in filling caregiver positions that many others pass up due to low pay and demanding hours.
– Their contributions support Michigan’s long-term care industry, which would struggle without them.
Final Thoughts
Undocumented immigrants are an important part of Michigan’s workforce, supporting industries vital to the state’s economy. Without their labor, many businesses would struggle to meet demand and maintain productivity. However, these employees frequently lack legal protections, fair pay, and job security.
Addressing immigration policies and providing pathways to legal work authorization could benefit both the Michigan economy and the workers who help sustain it.