Immigration is the process by which people move to a country other than their own. Many contemporary immigrants are in search of a better life, while others are seeking safety from violence or persecution. The arrival of immigrants has historically been a source of great economic and social benefit for states, and is an important ingredient in the development of many modern multicultural societies.
Today 14 percent of the United States population are immigrants, most of whom are naturalized citizens. Immigrants are a vibrant part of American culture and society, and contribute greatly to the diversity of the nation. Immigrants bring with them skills and ingenuity that have made America a leader in innovation and a magnet for entrepreneurs and workers around the world.
Despite the fact that they are relatively new to this country, the children of immigrants are on track to assimilate at about the same pace as their native born counterparts. In addition, the number of high school and college graduates in immigrant families is increasing faster than in the rest of the population, and second generation immigrants are less likely to drop out and more likely to graduate from college (Alba and Nee 2003; Kasinitz et al 2008). Their parents have also forged close ties with their communities, forming neighborhood associations and serving as mentors for younger members of their communities.
However, many Americans hold strong beliefs that are in opposition to immigrants and their potential contributions. Some believe that immigration is harmful to the economy and that immigrant workers depress wages by competing with native born Americans in low-skilled jobs. Others believe that immigrants are a drain on the welfare system and public services, and that they do not pay their fair share of taxes.
The debate surrounding immigration has continued to grow more divisive in recent years. The current wave of immigration, the largest since the end of the Age of Mass Migration in 1920, is bringing people from many countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America to the United States. This immigration is a major factor in the country’s rapidly growing economy. Moreover, the vast majority of these immigrants are skilled professionals with degrees in science, engineering and technology, as well as managers and executives at multinational companies. Unlike the immigrants in the earlier eras, these skilled migrants are not concentrated in high-tech industries and large urban centers, but are instead spread out throughout the nation. They are filling crucial niches in industries such as higher education, medicine and research, as well as the service sector. They are making an important contribution to the global economy, but the political debate over their role is becoming increasingly polarized. Many people express negative attitudes toward immigrants, which are often based on stereotypes and myths about their behavior and values. These misunderstandings lead to irrational fear and anger. Consequently, some policy makers are beginning to restrict immigration, even though the evidence indicates that it is beneficial for the nation.