Investing in Immigrants Makes Sense

From the founding of the country to the present day, immigrants have contributed to the country's economic growth, cultural diversity, and social fabric. However, despite the numerous benefits that immigrants bring, there has been a lot of controversy and debate surrounding immigration policy in recent years.  

Some argue that immigrants are a drain on the country's resources, while others advocate for more open borders and increased investment in immigrants. Let’s explore the importance of investing in immigrants and immigration with some historical examples. 

Origins of the U.S. 

One of the most notable examples of the importance of immigrants to the United States is the country's founding. The United States was established by immigrants, and the country's founding principles of freedom, democracy, and equality were inspired by the ideals of the Enlightenment. Many of the Founding Fathers were immigrants or descendants of immigrants, including Alexander Hamilton, John Adams, and Thomas Jefferson. The contributions of immigrants to the country's founding and development continue to be celebrated today, with many cities and states holding parades and festivals to honor their heritage... not to mention honor our independence as a new nation every year on the Fourth of July. 

European Migration  

Immigrants have also played a significant role in the country's economic growth. In the 19th century, waves of European immigrants flocked to the United States, seeking economic opportunity and a better life. Many of these immigrants worked in factories and farms, helping to build the country's infrastructure and laying the foundation for its economic prosperity. Immigrants have also been responsible for many of the country's most successful businesses, such as: Google, Tesla, Pfizer, all of which were founded by immigrants or immigrant descendants. 

Cultural Fabric of the U.S. 

In addition to their economic contributions, immigrants have also enriched the country's cultural diversity. The United States is known for its melting pot of cultures, and much of this diversity is thanks to the many different immigrant groups that have settled in the country. Immigrants have brought with them their unique customs, traditions, and languages, which have helped to shape American culture and identity. As well as improved education and travel opportunities for people who want to broaden their minds and explore the world after being exposed to other cultures here at home. 

Attitude Towards Immigration  

Despite the many benefits of immigration, there has been a lot of controversy surrounding the issue in recent years. Some argue that immigrants are a drain on the country's resources and take jobs away from American citizens. However, research has shown that immigrants actually contribute more to the economy than they take away. According to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, immigrants contribute $2 trillion to the US economy each year.

Investing in Immigration  

Investing in immigrants and immigration can have long-lasting benefits for the country. Providing education and job training for immigrants can help them to integrate into society and contribute even more to the economy. Providing a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants can help to reduce poverty and improve the quality of life across communities. Investing in immigrants can also help build resilient communities that are better equipped to weather economic downturns and other challenges, like a possible recession.  

Despite the controversy surrounding immigration policy, investing in immigrants and immigration can have long-lasting benefits, especially now where hundreds of industries across the U.S. are in constant need of more workers, there are older Americans populating the country, and the country’s average birth rate continues to drop. 

At OPA we acknowledge the importance that immigrants have played in our nation’s history and recognize the need to have more effective solutions to make citizenship attainable for all. For this reason, we developed our community lending immigration loan. With just 1% of interest, eligible immigrants can use this loan to pay their USCIS fee and go into repayment while their USCIS process is completed. We have heard from countless of borrowers and community partners that this loan is a necessity for the average immigrant wage worker who wants to complete a USCIS process and achieve naturalization, but the costs prove to be a roadblock.  

Join us as we work towards creating a nation of Americans and new citizens to make out country better. Learn how to donate or invest in OPA.