By Thomas V.M Sengeh

In recent years, America’s political landscape has witnessed a sharp uptick in anti-immigrant rhetoric and systemic marginalization of African descendants. This shift reflects not only policy decisions but also a national conversation that increasingly sees immigration through a sceptical or antagonistic lens. In understanding this phenomenon, it’s essential to address the socioeconomic contributions of immigrants and African descendants to the United States, while countering misconceptions that fuel exclusionary attitudes. This article examines the complex relationship between America’s historical identity, current policies, and the demonstrable economic value added by immigrants and African descendants.

Historical Context: America’s Identity as a Nation of Immigrants

Since its inception, the United States has been shaped by waves of immigrants who brought diverse skills, cultural richness, and a shared commitment to prosperity. From European settlers and African slaves to Latin American and Asian immigrants, every group has played an indelible role in building America’s infrastructure, industries, and cultural identity. Yet, with the present-day rise of populist and nationalist sentiments, America’s foundational ethos as a “melting pot” is under siege, challenging this diverse narrative.

The Economic Value of Immigration

Numerous studies substantiate the argument that immigrants are economic assets, and their contributions are foundational to several key sectors, from agriculture and technology to healthcare. According to the American Immigration Council, immigrants contribute approximately $2 trillion to the U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) annually. Moreover, immigrant-led households contributed $330.7 billion in federal taxes and $161.7 billion in state and local taxes in 2019 alone.

Immigrant workers fill critical labor gaps in industries that face significant shortages, such as agriculture, construction, and healthcare. For instance, immigrants make up about 17% of the U.S. labor force but constitute nearly 40% of workers in agriculture and 25% in construction. These sectors rely heavily on immigrant labor to meet domestic demands for food, housing, and healthcare. Immigrants in healthcare—making up about 28% of physicians and over 38% of home health aides—are particularly crucial given the ongoing aging population in the U.S. (Pew Research, 2022).

African Descendants: Enduring Contributions Amidst Systemic Challenges

African descendants, particularly African Americans, have contributed immensely to America’s economic, cultural, and social fabric. Historically, their forced labor built much of the nation’s wealth, especially in the agricultural sector, while systemic discrimination limited their economic opportunities. Today, Black entrepreneurs contribute to the economy by creating businesses that collectively generate over $150 billion annually in revenue and provide employment to nearly a million people.

Yet, African Americans continue to face obstacles that impede economic mobility and wealth accumulation. Persistent discrimination in hiring practices, housing policies, and access to capital not only harms individuals but also weakens economic growth by limiting the potential of a significant segment of the population. Addressing these barriers through equitable policies can unlock further economic benefits, as demonstrated by studies estimating that closing the Black-white wealth gap would add $1.5 trillion to the U.S. economy (McKinsey, 2020).

Immigrants as Net Contributors to Public Finances

A pervasive myth claims that immigrants strain public resources and increase government expenses. In reality, most studies reveal that immigrants contribute more in taxes than they receive in government benefits over their lifetimes. A 2017 study from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine found that the second generation of immigrants contributes the most in net fiscal benefits to the economy, often more than native-born individuals. This is due to the higher likelihood that immigrant children pursue higher education and skilled jobs, thereby increasing tax revenues.

Moreover, immigrant entrepreneurs are particularly prolific, founding nearly 25% of all new businesses in the U.S., even though they comprise only 14% of the population. Companies founded by immigrants or their children include well-known giants like Google, Amazon, and Tesla, which collectively employ hundreds of thousands of Americans. These businesses not only generate jobs but also stimulate economic innovation, positioning the U.S. as a leader in technology and other industries globally.

Policy Recommendations: A Path Forward

As America grapples with divisive perspectives on immigration and racial diversity, crafting inclusive policies is crucial for both social stability and economic prosperity. Some key policy recommendations include:

1. Implement Comprehensive Immigration Reforms: Modernizing immigration policy to facilitate skilled and unskilled immigration that aligns with labor demands will strengthen sectors experiencing labor shortages. Pathways to citizenship for undocumented workers, especially those who have resided in the U.S. for extended periods, would further secure these contributions.
2. Invest in Education and Workforce Training for African Americans and Immigrants: Providing targeted training programs and resources to help African American communities and immigrants access higher-paying job markets can reduce unemployment and poverty rates, boosting both local economies and national GDP.
3. Combat Discriminatory Practices in Housing and Employment: Addressing systemic barriers that prevent equitable access to housing, capital, and job opportunities would create a more level playing field. Policies ensuring fair housing and business loans for African descendants and immigrants can catalyze economic mobility and entrepreneurship, further diversifying and enriching the economy.
4. African Increase Support for Immigrant Entrepreneurs: Offering incentives, such as grants and access to capital, can enable immigrant entrepreneurs to expand their businesses, creating additional jobs for Americans and stimulating local economies.

Conclusion: The Road to a Resilient, Inclusive Future

In a world facing unprecedented economic, social, and environmental challenges, diversity remains a critical asset. America’s history as a nation built by immigrants and African descendants underscores the resilience and innovation that comes from inclusivity. A rational, data-driven understanding of immigration reveals a narrative that diverges sharply from populist rhetoric: Immigrants and African descendants are not only integral to America’s economic strength but also to its cultural richness and democratic principles.

By shifting the focus from divisive fear-based arguments to policies that acknowledge and invest in the strengths of these communities, America can remain competitive on a global scale while fostering a more equitable society. As history has shown, the United States thrives when it embraces diversity, and now is the time to double down on the policies that uphold this legacy.