The word immigrant has many connotations. For some, it carries associations of creating a new, prosperous life in another country. However, for others, “immigrants” mean feeling persecuted and out of place. Immigration is a hot topic these days, and many people are taking sides on the issue. Regardless of where you stand on the topic of immigration, here are four ways that immigration improves our country.
1. Immigrants expand our culture and community.
When immigrants enter a new community, they bring new languages and social traditions. This blend of cultures allows people to experience a wide variety of traditions. This, in turn, expands the community and opens the door for new ideas.
2. Immigrants improve the economy.
Many people assume that immigrants steal jobs from native-born citizens. However, research shows that immigration positively influences countries’ economic prosperity. For instance, economists Michael Greenstone and Adam Looney write that “Immigrants and US-born workers generally do not compete for the same jobs. Instead, many foreigners complement the work of US employees and increase their productivity.”
3. Immigration brings the world together.
Studies show that cultural blending brings people from all backgrounds closer together. When people explore different cultural traditions, they are less likely to discriminate against those from different cultures. Furthermore, cultural blending increases respect and understanding. Not to mention, knowing someone from another country lets you taste new delicious cuisine!
4. Immigration creates a fairer level of wealth distribution.
People often emigrate from poorer countries to settle in wealthier ones. These foreigners from less wealthy lands embrace many opportunities that non-immigrants take for granted. Moreover, since only 33 out of more than 200 nations are considered “developed,” immigration helps redistribute wealth.
No matter where we live, we must support and respect immigrants. Nobody benefits from hating those who come from different backgrounds. Therefore, we should stop prejudice and normalize immigration. Remember that they don’t enter our country to destroy it or abuse our benefits. Immigrants are here to better our lives and our country. After all, we’re all in this together.
Featured image via Nitish Meena on Unsplash
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