Immigration and foreigners in America have recently become a charged topic, with many advocating for mass deportations, while others support broad acceptance of foreigners coming into America. It’s easy to dismiss those favoring mass deportations as scapegoating immigrants for unemployment or crime among natives. Sometimes the data supports this narrative, and other times it does not.
The clearest indication of immigrants causing harm is when America is treated as a capitalist sandbox, with no sense of civic duty to improve communities or embody American ideals. Immigrants often come to America for its unique trifecta of security, freedom, and opportunity, qualities rarely found elsewhere. However, some adopt a zero-sum mindset, consuming these benefits without contributing back. Some even feel that paying taxes while pursuing material wealth means America owes them.
This line of thinking misses the mark.
America was built into an incredible society by the ancestors of modern-day Americans, who were benevolent enough to allow immigrants in and grant them equal rights, a rarity globally. America’s greatness didn’t emerge spontaneously. From 1776 through the 1900s, generations made critical, low time-preference decisions, sacrificing immediate gains for a trajectory of long-term prosperity, often not living to see the fruits of their labor.
Immigrants have undeniably contributed to America’s success. Achievements like the Manhattan Project, modern AI, and other technical innovations highlight immigrant-driven progress. Each generation of new Americans brings youthful energy, renewing the wellspring of American ingenuity and spirit.
Despite these contributions, two issues persist:
These behaviors translate into metrics showing immigrants as accretive (e.g., tax revenue, economic growth) but dilutive to quality of life (e.g., hollowed-out communities, degradation of local culture, misallocation of government resources).
America is at an inflection point where, for most, life is worsening year-over-year.
This is not an endorsement of any political ideology. I’ve voted for Republican, Democrat, and independent/third-party candidates, and I believe partisanship, especially when tribal, is harmful. Americans should critically evaluate candidates based on who actually has the best policies.
America doesn’t need to own your identity. You are free to pursue your calling, which aligns with American ideals. Full assimilation or rejection of your heritage isn’t necessary, but inclusivity toward those who were here before you is essential. Legal immigrants should not fear living here. Speak your native language (while becoming fluent in English), attend cultural centers, practice your religion, and observe your cultural holidays. These can harmonize with American culture if you strive to leave America better for all Americans, especially for future generations.
If you can’t commit to this, consider living somewhere where you can.