The debate surrounding immigrant labor in the United States often centers on fears of job displacement and economic strain. “They’re taking our jobs” is a common refrain said by people who support tightening immigration restrictions and border controls. However, an in-depth analysis of research conducted by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reveals a different perspective. Immigrants, far from taking away jobs, play a crucial role in sustaining several vital industries and filling the gaps left by native-born citizens.
Contrary to popular belief, research indicates that foreign-born adults in the US exhibit higher employment rates compared to native-born adults. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities reports that approximately 63.4% of foreign-born adults are employed, while the employment rate for native-born adults stands at 59.8%. At minimum, this would suggest that if any jobs are being taken by immigrants, it’s in jobs that native-born adults are already choosing not to take.
As a matter of fact, immigrant workers make significant contributions to several industries that are critical to the functioning of the US economy. Sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, healthcare, construction, and manufacturing heavily rely on immigrant labor to sustain operations. Native-born citizens have increasingly moved away from these fields, creating a demand for immigrant workers who are willing to take up these essential roles.
In agriculture, for instance, immigrants make up a significant portion of the workforce. Their contributions enable the agricultural industry to thrive and meet the needs of the United States population. And given how much food is exported from the US annually In healthcare, comprising $196 billion alone in 2022, immigrant labor in the US helps to meet the needs of the world overall. But it’s not just agriculture where immigrants are plugging a gaping hole left by native-born workers. In fact, immigrants often fill vital roles in hospitals and clinics, including as nurses and caregivers, thereby addressing labor shortages and providing countless patients with vital healthcare.
Immigrants also play a critical role in filling skill gaps within the US job market. Many highly skilled immigrant workers bring specialized knowledge and expertise, contributing to innovation and economic growth. They fuel entrepreneurship by starting businesses that create jobs and contribute to local economies. According to a study by the National Foundation for American Policy, more than half of the billion-dollar startup companies in the US were founded by immigrants.
The narrative surrounding immigrant labor in the United States must shift from one of fear and misconception to one that recognizes the invaluable contributions immigrants make to our society. Instead of vilifying immigrant labor, we should acknowledge their pivotal role in sustaining essential industries native-born citizens often shun. Recognizing the essential nature of immigrant labor is not only a matter of economic sense but also a reflection of our values as a diverse and inclusive nation. Working together, immigrants and native-born citizens can build a stronger, more prosperous future that harnesses everyone’s full potential.
Shouldn’t that be something we all want?
Lynn Freshour is a Research Director and reigning data nerd at GVC, an inclusion business strategy firm, as well as at Insight Squad, a DEI data analytics firm. To learn more, visit diversitystrategy.com.