Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These are the “inalienable rights” that our founding fathers deemed the basis for one’s American Dream. Since the origin of this nation, a question has emerged: Who are the people deserving of these rights? The answer is convoluted, and to this day, many struggle to reconcile the diverse nation that is America. The political climate is changing, and it has taken a divisive turn, especially in regard to immigration policy.
President Donald Trump summed up his stance on this issue in his candidacy announcement: “When Mexico sends its people, they’re not sending their best… They’re bringing drugs. They’re bringing crime. They’re rapists. And some, I assume, are good people.” And so began the polarizing and volatile campaign that infiltrated every aspect of mainstream culture. Mexican illegal immigration had taken the forefront of political conversation, but this is an issue rooted in stigma not substance.
While immigration spiked in the 1960s and 1990s, it has decreased since 2007. In the past decade, there has been negative growth over the Mexican-American border. The American economy has slowed since, and the Mexican system has picked up speed. Currently, 11 million illegal immigrants are residing in the United States, 52% of whom are Mexican. But, contrary to popular belief, these immigrants have overwhelmingly positive effects on the economy.
The growth in population via immigration, both thru illegal and legal channels, increases productivity, GDP, and the demand for goods. This surge in consumerism is beneficial in the long run though increased hiring and better wages. Labor markets are quick to adapt, and large-scale immigration actually has no negative effect on native-born citizens.
Americans can actually enjoy the advantages of having a higher income and more opportunity for professional growth as immigrants occupy more menial jobs.
With time, migrants will contribute more to the workforce as they take on jobs that better match their skill set. According to a 2013 study from the Center for American Progress, “Granting undocumented immigrants immediate citizenship would add $1.4 trillion to economic growth, increase tax revenues by $184 billion and create 203,000 jobs over the next decade.”
Should Donald Trump pursue his plan to deport every illegal immigrant, he will make lives very difficult for these otherwise law-abiding, tax-paying members of society. Mow that Trump has transitioned into the Oval office, he must realize that the world is looking on, and his policies are seriously flawed. A border wall and mass deportations will not provide sustainable solutions and will cause animosity in America’s diplomatic relationship with Mexico.
