Immigrants are struggling in this economy. They are usually entrepreneurial, and often are risk takers and start businesses that are successful in good times, but often harder hit in a bad economy. - - Donna Poisl
By Judy Keen, USA TODAY
CHICAGO — Raudel Sanchez's American dream was so strong that he tied a few possessions around his waist in 1967 and swam across the Rio Grande into Texas.
"I wanted to make a better life in America," says Sanchez, 63. "My dream was bringing my family here and working together."
Sanchez, now a U.S. citizen, joined a brother in Chicago after crossing the border near Laredo, Texas. He worked as a butcher, making $1.85 an hour, and took a second job at a candy factory. He often worked 14 hours a day. He saved his earnings and eventually brought his wife, siblings and parents — who are now in their 90s — to Chicago.
Eventually, he opened several small businesses and built a comfortable life for himself and his family. But now, the recession has hit him hard. He has sold one of his three clothing stores and a restaurant, resulting in layoffs of several immigrant workers. He's considering selling a second store.
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