Archita S. 2026 | BASIS Independent Silicon Valley
- Project Title: Fruits of Labor: The Impact of Immigration Policy on Monterey County Agricultural Production
- BASIS Independent Advisor: Parson
- Internship Location: Inventus Law
- Onsite Mentor: Abhilipsa Panda, Tech and Privacy Lawyer, Inventus Law
This project aims to examine how recent shifts in US immigration policy have influenced the agricultural economy of Monterey County, with a focus on workforce stability, income distribution, and social well-being. It also looks towards proposing policy or community-based solutions to mitigate the effects of these policies.
The research conducted through this project will involve both quantitative and qualitative data. A major aspect of the research project will be collecting data from nationwide and regional sources. This will include a mix of previously collected data and actual data collection from the county to have specific data for the project. The data will be quantitative, including an understanding of the region's demographics and preferences that determine the economic, political, and social climate. In addition, information will be collected on beliefs before and after recent immigration practices, if applicable, as well as problems or issues caused by immigration regulations. Finally, the project will contain qualitative data, including interviews, testimonies, and personal impacts, all of which, in total, will give a more holistic view of the issue. Finally, all this data will be compiled and reviewed to analyze a solution or set of solutions that would best help address the issues caused.
At the end of this project, a paper will be created analyzing the social, political, and economic impacts of recent immigration policy on the agricultural economy of Monterey County. Furthermore, a feasible solution would be created that could ideally help mitigate the negative impacts of these policies to create a more sustainable community.
