B Stands for Build

Good afternoon,

In Congress, Democrats and Republicans are working across the aisle on legislation that will improve the United States’ ability to compete with countries like China, by investing in new technologies, fostering innovation, and improving American manufacturing. But there is a critical component currently missing from this legislation and our national conversation on global competitiveness: immigration.

Looking to the future, immigration will be essential in safeguarding the American economy and countering the effects of shifting demographics. Immigrants are already a critical component of our economy – providing healthcare and childcare, and ensuring our food supply as agricultural, processing and retail workers. These roles will only become more important as the American population ages. As stated in Room to Grow, a National Immigration Forum publication authored by President and CEO, Ali Noorani and Senior Policy and Advocacy Associate, Danilo Zak,

According to the U.S. census, nearly one in every four Americans is projected to be 65 years or older by 2060. At that point, 94.7 million people over age 65 will be living in the country — close to twice the number today. At the same time, the overall population is growing at a slower rate than it has in almost a century, leaving unfilled openings in crucial industries such as health care, agriculture, and information technology.

Room to Grow advocates for increasing annual immigration levels by 37% to counteract this demographic shift, and ensure the U.S. remains economically competitive in the future. This proposed increase would benefit our national security as well. Increased immigration – and, in turn, a strong economy – will not only ensure our military readiness, but foster prosperity, wellness and social trust at home and expand our global influence abroad. Considering the United States’ escalating power struggle with China, it will be imperative to take every possible step to fortify our economy and bolster our national security.

Our elected officials have a duty to protect the political, economic, and social health of the nation. As stated by Noorani and Zak, "A modern immigration system is necessary to respond to modern challenges, and increasing immigration levels will help us both provide for our elderly population and give us confidence in the country we are leaving to our children and grandchildren." By expanding lawful immigration pathways, policymakers can ensure the United States remains a beacon of safety and prosperity for generations.

Stay healthy and hopeful,

Adam

Adam Estle
Vice President of Field and Constituencies
National Immigration Forum 

NEWS CLIPS TO NOTE:

NEW YORK TIMES: From India, Brazil and Beyond: Pandemic Refugees at the Border  

REUTERS: DHS withdraws Trump admin. rule that narrowed H-1B eligibility

NEWSWEEK: Joe Biden Pivots to Dreamers and Family Unification As Border Woes Fade

ROLL CALL: ‘Dreamers’ advocates turn up heat on Senate after Biden meeting

DESERET NEWS: Salt Lake City police chief: Utah will allow legal noncitizens to be officers — and Washington should take notice