Public Policy: Immigration Issues in United States

Introduction

Immigration is an issue deeply connected to America since its foundation. People have been moving from all over the world into the country, settling and building families with then form more families going for generations. The number of immigrants in the United States is higher than any other nation in the world bringing in many benefits and also some challenges. Over one million immigrants enter the country through the legal means while about three million enter through illegal means bring the total number to about 4 million each year. Nevertheless, Americans are proud and feel connected to the immigrants who come for various things such as seeking for freedom, better economic opportunities, and education. The national government has a responsibility of forming and enacting immigration policy that is fair and protects both the citizens and the individuals desiring to migrate into the country. The policy is mainly concerned how people move and more importantly where they intend to stay and work. Immigration, however, has an impact on international trade, culture, and culture.

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Immigration Situation in the US

The biggest immigrants in the United States come from Mexico with 31 %, Asia with 23 %, Europe with 12 % Caribbean with 9 %, South America with 7 % while other countries such as Central America, Middle East, Canada, and African also represented (Dye 228). These individuals are granted "green cards" or permanent residence legally while some, mostly from neighboring countries such as Mexico and Canada use forged documents. Upon entering the United States, the government does not track the activities of the visitors or follow up individuals who illegally overstay (Dye 228). This leads to an increase in the number of illegal immigrants who currently are over ten million in the country. The number of immigrants in the 21st century is certainly higher than it has ever been and the only time immigration slowed down was during the recession in 2008.

Cultural Conflict

Immigration impacts both the economy and cultural aspects. However, the majority of corporate and business leaders usually view immigration basing on how it impacts the economy more precisely the increase in a number of low paid workers whom they can benefit from. However, some citizens especially those coming from the middle class see immigration in terms of culture. As much as about 99 % are descendants of immigrants, the majority believe the current immigration is significantly dramatic. Some fear that with a huge number of immigrants entering the country, some of the core aspect of American cultures such as equality of opportunity, political equality, economic freedom and individual liberty (Dye 230). More precisely they are worried about interference with their political and cultural unity. However, this not usually the case as most of the immigrants usually become "Americanized" instead of influencing the Americans.

Those Who Support Immigration

Even after realizing the high number of immigrants coming into the country, efforts to reduce the numbers have not been completely effective. This can be attributed to the influence that powerful industrial groups have when it comes to immigration. These groups have managed support the expansion of legal migrations and weaken laws that hinder illegal migration. These groups mainly come from fields such as hospitals, clothing, restaurants, construction, and agriculture all who their business depends on large numbers of the labor force. These business groups usually work hard to ensure the national immigration policy favors them regardless of the long-term effects it may have.

All in all, immigration is a big issue in the United States. The number of immigrants who come to the country every year is quite stunning more so those who use illegal means. This situation usually brings cultural conflict on one hand while big industrial business benefit as the numbers keep on increasing.

References

Dye, Thomas R. Understanding Public Policy. , 2017. Print.