In America (2002) : A Story of Irish Immigrant Family

I was recommended the movie "In America"(2002) by one of my Social Work professor, and found that the movie captures universal difficulties for immigrants living in the United States.

Plot of the Story

Sullivan family came to New York City with a hope for a better life. Johny, the father of Christy and Ariel, has a dream of becoming an actor, but has hard time to realize his dream. Sarah, the mother of the sisters works at an ice cream shop and earns few money for the family. Cristy and Ariel are very cheerful and supportive to the parents, though they face culture shock and feel isolated from their Catholic school. The family lives in a run-down apartment,where drug addicts and strange people wander around.  They gradually become familiar with an African artist Mateo, who lives in downstairs. Mateo loves the family, but he knows he has to say good bye to them forever... 
No matter how hard the difficulties are , the family eventually overcome them together and strengthen their familial ties.

Issues for the Family
1. Being in illegal status.
2. Living in dangerous neighborhood.
3. Low-paid jobs: waitress and taxi driver.
4. No support system.
    *Mateo eventually becomes the family's closest friend and support the family financially.
5. Mental health issue: the family lost their youngest family member Frankie due to disease before coming to the U.S., and they have not recovered from the loss. Especially, Sarah has been depressed deeply by her beloved son's death.
6. Culture shock: Christy and Ariel feel that they are different from their classmates since they are Irish.
7. No insurance: at the time Sarah is hospitalized, Johny is asked to pay incredibly expensive bill.

Probably, you already notice that their problems are very common among immigrant families. Poor neighborhood, low-paid jobs, no support system, no insurance, and culture shock...

Q. While watching the movie, I was wondering the reason others( people at the school and neighbors) look down on the family because of their Irish heritage. Does anyone know why? There must be historical factors contribute to it, I guess. If you know anything about it, please let me know! I will also do some research, and post a blog regarding to the issue if time allows me to...hehehe

Phuong