In the land of diversity and opportunity, the United States has been shaped by the contributions of immigrants from all corners of the world. Despite this rich tapestry of cultures, misconceptions about immigrants are unfortunately common and persist in American communities. These misconceptions are fueled by misinformation, stereotypes, and fear of the unknown leading to misunderstandings and sometimes unjust treatment.
It is essential to address these misconceptions through education, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences of immigrants. By dispelling these misconceptions, communities can foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all residents, regardless of their cultural background or immigration status.
Let’s look at six of the most prevalent misconceptions and unveil the truth about our fellow immigrant residents. This week we’re starting with the first 3 myths we want to dispel!
Misconception #1: Taking Jobs from Americans
One common misconception is that immigrants, particularly undocumented ones, are taking job opportunities away from native-born Americans. However, studies consistently show that immigrants complement the labor market, filling positions in industries with labor shortages and often taking jobs that others may be less willing to do.
Immigrants tend to flock to industries where there is a need for workers – and currently, the United States has a high need for workers! When the U.S. labor market has a need that American workers can’t or won’t fill, immigrants move to fill in those jobs.
When immigrants enter the United States workforce, it actually benefits the economy and raises the GDP! Not only do immigrant incomes rise, but American incomes rise, too. The Bush Institute explains that this “immigration surplus” amounts to an additional $36-73 billion dollars flowing to Americans each year.
Not only are immigrants filling jobs in industries with labor shortages, many are entrepreneurs who often contribute to economic growth by starting businesses thus creating job opportunities for both immigrants and native-born Americans.
According to a new study co-authored by an MIT researcher in American Economic Review: Insights immigrants are 80% more likely to start a business than people born in the U.S. The new research found that per capita, foreign-born residents started more businesses of all sizes.
The study’s results are in line with previous research which states a total of 219 companies in the Fortune 500 list had immigrant roots: 102 of those companies were founded by immigrants, and 117 companies were founded by the children of immigrants.
- Fortune 500 companies founded by immigrants or children of immigrants employ more than 14.8 million people worldwide.
- The over $7 trillion in revenue generated by Fortune 500 companies founded by immigrants or children of immigrants is greater than the GDP of every country in the world outside the United States, except China.
Misconception #2: Lack of Tax Contributions
The misconception that immigrants do not pay taxes is far from the truth. Immigrants, both documented and undocumented, pay taxes and contribute to Medicare and Social Security. Most economists believe they actually contribute more than they receive!
Misconception #3: Dependency on Social Welfare Programs
There is a misconception that immigrants rely heavily on social welfare programs. In reality, most immigrants are ineligible for many social benefits. Undocumented immigrants do not have access to most welfare benefits, and even lawful immigrants usually have to wait five years before they can apply for benefits. (An example of a benefit an undocumented person may be eligible for would be treatment in a hospital emergency room in a dire situation.)
It is also interesting to note that studies show that immigrants are less likely to use welfare benefits than native-born Americans.
Let’s have the conversation you’ve always wanted to have about immigration.