The debate on immigration is often fraught with emotion, myths and misunderstandings. In many countries, especially those with a high migration flow like the United States, it is common to hear the idea that immigrants represent a nuisance or a burden on society. But how true is this? They are blamed for the lack of employment, the increase in insecurity or the collapse of public services, when the reality is much more complex.
Far from being a burden, immigrants often make significant contributions to the economy. In many developed countries, they fill essential jobs that locals do not want or that suffer from labor shortages, such as construction, domestic service, agriculture, and health care. In addition, many start their own businesses, creating jobs and contributing to taxes. Immigration also enriches culture and fosters innovation. Throughout history, some of the greatest scientific, technological, and cultural advances have emerged thanks to the influence of immigrants. Leading companies around the world have been founded by people who left their country in search of new opportunities.
Why is it a priority to stop illegal immigration?
One point that is often overlooked is that illegal immigration affects not only citizens, but also immigrants who have followed the process legally. Many of them have waited years, paid thousands of dollars in paperwork, and passed strict checks to obtain their legal status. It is unfair that if you have been fighting for legal status in a country for years, another person arrives illegally and is given all the benefits you could imagine. Well, that happened with Joe Biden’s government in the United States. It’s sheer madness.
Illegal immigrants have access to public services such as emergency medical care, education, and social assistance, which creates a significant fiscal burden for taxpayers. Schools and hospitals in areas with high illegal immigration are overwhelmed, affecting the quality of services. While most immigrants are not criminals, the lack of rigorous filters can facilitate the entry of individuals with dangerous backgrounds, the passage of drugs, and organized crime. While immigration can be beneficial in certain sectors, unregulated migration flows can distort market equilibrium and generate economic tensions.
I am in favor of immigration, but legal immigration.
How could I not be? I am an immigrant, but above all, I know that immigration is an engine that drives a country forward. Think about it—while one country loses its young talents, another is fortunate enough to welcome them. Just consider this: would we have Google, Amazon, or Tesla without immigrants? To begin with, Sergey Brin is of Russian origin, Jeff Bezos has Latin American parents, and Elon Musk is South African. I could list many more examples.
Immigration is a positive force, but it must be legal and orderly. As an immigrant, I understand the challenges of obtaining residency or the necessary permits. Many of us make significant sacrifices, following a legal process that is often long, expensive, and complex. We do so because we believe in the value of the system. If we allow others to enter illegally without meeting the same requirements, we undermine the efforts of those who have followed the rules and respected the process.
However, I will always be in favor of immigration. Legal immigration allows immigrants to fully contribute to the economy and culture of the host country. By having access to legal jobs, they pay taxes, participate in social security, and can contribute to growth and innovation. In addition, this type of immigration allows the talent and skill of those who wish to contribute to their new society to be taken advantage of without fear of being exploited or living in the shadows. Legal immigration promotes easier integration into society, as immigrants have access to resources such as education, job training, and language learning, making it easier for them to adapt and succeed in the long run. In addition, immigrants who follow the laws of the country respect and understand social norms, which fosters an environment of mutual respect.
Immigration is positive, but legal and organized.
The responsibility of being an immigrant
I think we all have a clear responsibility. We must take care of the country that adopted us as our own. We must integrate, learn the language, strive to be good citizens. When migrating, immigrants must also be aware that the host country has democratic principles that must be respected. Tolerance, respect for human rights and freedom of expression are fundamental elements in many societies, and it is the responsibility of every immigrant to adhere to these principles. Being aware that in a democratic society everyone has rights, but also responsibilities, is essential for successful integration. Commitment to the local community goes beyond following the laws. Immigrants have the responsibility to be good neighbors, to help create harmonious coexistence and to be active citizens, participating in public life and contributing to the construction of an inclusive society. This can include voting (if they have the right), getting involved in voluntary activities, contributing ideas for the improvement of the environment and respecting the interests of the community. We must comply with regulations and respect institutions, which not only facilitates integration, but also strengthens the social and political stability of the host country.
Immigration is not only a right, but also a commitment to the society that receives them, and it is through this effort of integration and mutual respect that a prosperous and harmonious coexistence for all can be achieved.
The million dollar question
Are we a hindrance?
There is actually something we cannot deny. There is a lot of prejudice, resentment, and racism towards immigrants. That is a truth I have experienced firsthand as an immigrant, but I do not want to generalize that this is always the case. In times of economic hardship, some people feel that immigrants are in direct competition for the same jobs, housing, and resources. This feeling of competition can lead to racism and xenophobia, especially if immigrants are willing to work for lower wages or in jobs that native citizens do not want.
The perception of being a “hindrance” usually comes from a lack of information or a disordered immigration system, not from the reality of what immigrants bring to the country.
No, we are not a hindrance. At least I like to think not. We are seeing in the United States how many families that had previously been united thanks to immigration are separating again. It is painful, but it is a good time for immigrants to reflect on why we decided to flee our country, our lands, our home. We must understand that our rulers are the first to separate families. And perhaps these deportations are a seed of struggle for our lands instead of abandoning them.
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