The “February Slump”: Fighting the Mid-Winter Blues
Introduction: When the Adrenaline Fades On January 1st, everyone has hope. “This is the year I get my papers.” “This is the year I learn English.” By January 30th, the adrenaline has worn off. The sky is grey. The court date is still delayed. The job is still hard. We call this the “February Slump.” […]
Roots and Wings: Bridging the Gap for Black History Month
Introduction: February 1st Approaches This Sunday marks the start of Black History Month. For a recent immigrant from Uganda, this can be a confusing time. They are Black, but they are not African American. They share a skin color, but not a history. There is often a silent tension—a “gap”—between the African immigrant community and […]
The “Refund” Lifeline: Why Tax Season Matters for New Americans
Introduction: The W-2 Arrival It is January 30th. In mailboxes across America, W-2 forms are arriving. For the average American, tax season is a headache. For the low-income immigrant family, tax season is a lifeline. The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and the Child Tax Credit are often the largest single sums of money a […]