National Immigration Forum

Recent claims that 300,000+ unaccompanied children are "missing" have fueled concerning policy changes. Our new explainer separates fact from fiction and analyzes how these policies could impact vulnerable young people navigating our immigration system. The resource explains tracking challenges, recent enforcement memos, and why improvements to the system should prioritize child welfare rather than increased deportations. Read the full analysis: https://lnkd.in/ejk3YN5s

NEW POLICY ANALYSIS: Unaccompanied Alien Children in 2025 We have published an updated explainer on Unaccompanied Alien Children (UACs), addressing recent claims of "missing" children and analyzing new enforcement policies that could impact these vulnerable young people. This comprehensive resource provides data on UAC referrals, explains the sponsor system, and examines recent policy developments that threaten legal representation for unaccompanied minors. Read and share this important analysis: https://lnkd.in/ejk3YN5s

What makes our approach at the National Immigration Forum unique? We understand that immigration isn't just a political issue - it's an economic one. Our New American Workforce program partners with leading corporations to provide industry-specific English language training and citizenship assistance to immigrant employees. The results speak for themselves: "In the two years of the project, we haven't lost a single team member who participated in the English program. We've even seen many associates gain the confidence and skills needed to apply for and receive promotions." – Mark Wilkins, Regional Trainer, Whole Foods Market When businesses invest in their immigrant workforce, everyone benefits: companies retain talented employees, workers advance their careers, and our economy grows stronger. Want to learn how your company can participate? Contact us today.

We are proud to share the remarkable story of Chief Robert Rodriguez, a member of our Law Enforcement Immigration Task Force (LEITF). Chief Rodriguez's journey—from an undocumented child from Tijuana to Police Chief of Santa Ana, California—powerfully illustrates why our immigration principles emphasize: ?Focusing enforcement on genuine public safety threats ?Maintaining immigration enforcement as a federal responsibility ?Respecting human dignity while ensuring community safety "My background gives me a deep understanding of the fears and challenges immigrant communities face," says Rodriguez. "which informs my approach to policing, ensuring that our department prioritizes safety, service, and constitutional policing…" Read his full interview and learn how law enforcement leaders are working to build trust with immigrant communities: https://lnkd.in/eifPrfzG

A strong economy is essential to national security. Immigrants have been essential to American prosperity for centuries as workers, consumers and entrepreneurs. The Council on National Security and Immigration, one of our partners, emphasizes that attracting and retaining global talent is critical as we compete with nations like China. We need forward-thinking immigration policies that encourage innovation while protecting our security interests. At the National Immigration Forum, we're working with business leaders to advance immigration reforms that strengthen America's economic competitiveness and national security. When we create pathways for skilled workers and entrepreneurs, we invest in America's future. Learn more about our partnership with security experts and how smart immigration reform benefits us all: https://lnkd.in/eeZqeKF6

At the National Immigration Forum, we know that immigrant integration is good business. Through our New American Workforce program, we partner with leading companies to provide English language training and citizenship assistance at the worksite. These programs lead to higher retention rates, improved productivity, and greater employee loyalty - while helping immigrants achieve their American dream. The result? A stronger workforce, thriving businesses, and an economy that works for everyone. Ready to learn how your company can benefit? .https://lnkd.in/ewAEXXay

The recent executive order suspending America's refugee program represents a significant shift from decades of bipartisan commitment to refugee resettlement. This comes just months after celebrating the resettlement of over 100,000 refugees in 2024 - our highest total in 30 years. Refugee resettlement remains one of our most secure and orderly immigration pathways. The program includes thorough security checks and has consistently strengthened our communities through: ??Filling critical workforce needs ??Bringing entrepreneurial talent ??Contributing to economic growth ??Upholding America's humanitarian leadership Now is the time to support, not suspend, this vital program that has enjoyed broad support across political lines for generations. https://lnkd.in/gCMCn2GA

?? NEW RESOURCE: "Are Sanctuary Policies Unlawful? State and Municipal Prerogatives to Collaborate with Federal Immigration Authorities" This timely analysis by Arturo Castellanos-Canales examines two crucial legal questions in light of recent federal lawsuits against Chicago, New York, and other jurisdictions: ??Can state and local jurisdictions limit their involvement in enforcing immigration laws? ??Can the federal government impose funding conditions to compel immigration enforcement? The short answers: "likely yes" to the first question and "likely no" to the second. Read the full analysis to understand the constitutional principles at play: https://lnkd.in/dJW4Yyrt

The debate over birthright citizenship isn't just about immigration policy - it's about who we are as a nation. For over 125 years, the 14th Amendment has ensured that children born on American soil are American citizens, regardless of their parents' status. This principle has helped make the United States a nation where citizenship is based on shared values and birthplace, not ancestry. As business leaders, we understand that this inclusive approach to citizenship has helped drive American innovation and economic growth for generations. Many of today's business owners and workers are the children and grandchildren of immigrants who became citizens through birthright citizenship. It's time to stand up for this fundamental American principle. Learn more about why birthright citizenship matters for our economy and our values: https://lnkd.in/epfBAq9A

The contributions of Dreamers to America's economy and communities are undeniable, yet their future remains uncertain. Here's what you should know about these vital members of our workforce: Dreamers are driving economic growth across vital sectors. They contribute $45 billion annually to our economy through their wages, plus $13 billion in federal, payroll, state, and local taxes. Nearly half work in industries facing critical labor shortages, including healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Their entrepreneurial spirit is remarkable - approximately 10% of DACA recipients have launched their own businesses, creating jobs and innovations that benefit all Americans. During the COVID-19 pandemic, over 30,000 Dreamers served on the frontlines as healthcare professionals. But these contributions extend beyond the economy. Dreamers are deeply rooted in American communities: ??One in five are parents to U.S. citizen children ??31% of DACA recipients are homeowners ??They contribute $760 million in annual mortgage payments ??One in ten are married to U.S. citizens Despite their integration into American life, Dreamers face ongoing uncertainty. Recent court challenges to DACA's legality highlight the urgent need for Congress to create a permanent legislative solution that provides a path to citizenship for these Americans in all but paper. The business case is clear: providing Dreamers with permanent legal status isn't just the right thing to do - it's essential for America's continued economic growth and competitiveness.