Across the globe, every day people make one of the most profound decisions of their lives: to leave home in search of a safer and better life. For many, the choice is temporary; for others, it will last a lifetime.
In the United States, people come to live here from around the world for a variety of reasons: family relationships, work opportunities, and humanitarian protection, to name a few. In addition to those who enter legally, millions of people are unauthorized, having entered the country without inspection or overstayed a period of lawful admission. These individuals—often called “illegal immigrants”—are a large and growing part of the population.
Immigration to the United States has a long history, and its future is an important topic for policymakers and voters alike. To explore the current landscape, this report looks at key issues in four broad areas:
Immigrants live in communities throughout the nation, with a significant presence in urban, suburban, and rural locales. They make an immense contribution as workers, business owners, and taxpayers, and contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of their host communities. As neighbors, they bring a wealth of personal and professional experience to their new homes and often play critical roles in helping children and grandchildren achieve success.
While immigrants generally report positive views of their community, they face some serious challenges and concerns. For example, nearly all immigrants say that their financial situation is better here than in their countries of origin, but about half say they are overqualified for the jobs they hold—a possible indication that they have taken jobs they deem less desirable in order to support themselves and their families. Additionally, fears of deportation can affect interactions with their families and the local community.
For these and other reasons, it is imperative that public discourse on the issue of immigration be informed by facts. This report offers an overview of the people and places involved in this ever-evolving debate.
What We Do
The vast majority of Americans are descendants of immigrants. From the first wave of European immigrants that arrived in the 19th century to the end of racial and ethnic segregation after World War II, people have moved to America from all over the world seeking opportunity and a better life for themselves and their families. In the decades since, new migrants have arrived from Asia and Latin America as well.
In the years ahead, it is likely that even more people will leave their homes in search of safety and prosperity. The question is how best to govern their entry into the nation and the way that we welcome them once they are here. That is why a comprehensive immigration reform plan is needed. The federal government should invest more in cities that are welcoming to newcomers and work with the private sector to create innovative ways for employers to recruit talented immigrants. In addition, it should end policies that punish cities that are working to help people escape violence and other inhuman conditions in their home countries.