Today, women make up more than half of America’s immigrant population. And, many of them are much different from the “anchor baby” mothers shown in media.
But, what happens when their visas expire and they are sent home? How is it affecting our economy – and the professional advancement of women worldwide?
Moira Vetter, CEO of Modo Modo Agency, is losing one of her graphic designers, 24 year-old Ida Persson, to an expired visa.
Persson, a native of Sweden, received a full scholarship to the University of Alabama and worked for Vetter for nine months. Vetter agreed to apply for her visa, “but there are only so many spots available for each immigrant,” she tells PINK.
“I wanted to grow her into a manager.”
“Ida was unable to receive one.”
Now, a valuable asset to her company is being forced to take her expertise elsewhere.
Her only options: get married, have someone in her family pay $100,000 to fund her own U.S.-based business to show she can create jobs for Americans, or return to Sweden and wait until next April to apply for a visa that will allow her to return in October 2014.
“She has a natural skill set and the demeanor to be a leader,” says Vetter. “I wanted to grow her into a manager.”
COMMENT: Do you think immigration laws are negatively affecting the advancement of women? Tell us!
BONUS PINK LINK: Are you leading a purpose driven career?
By Amber Paige Lee
“Destiny is a name often given in retrospect to choices that had dramatic consequences.” J. K. Rowling
Image Shutterstock: Andresr 04
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