The changing face of American immigrants

So Pew Research Center has looked at where this country’s immigrants have come from in the last 40 or so years. Interestingly, last fiscal year, most of our immigrants came from the Democratic Republic of Congo.

No, they’re not taking our jobs

A new study from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine says that immigrants are not taking our jobs. The report also addresses whether immigrants burden government budgets, but that’s another story. (By the way? That links takes you to a page where you can download it for free, as I did. I thought I …

Oh, irony! Thy name is Bosnia.

The Guardian has an interesting story outta Missouri (saLUTE!) about how Bosnian immigrants might turn that swing state blue. As with so many immigrant groups, some of the rhetoric that has passed for conversation during this election has moved people to register to vote — some for the first time.

How do we feel about immigrants?

Leftover sends this incredible study from the Public Religion Research Institute. The study includes: More than two-thirds (68%) of young adults (age 18 to 29) say that immigrants coming to the U.S. strengthen the country, while fewer than one in five (19%) say that immigrants threaten traditional American customs and values. In contrast, only 36% …

Well, THIS is troubling how the U.S. sees immigrants

It’s from the Pew Research Center.

Where we’re from

Check out some of the origins of immigrants in these American cities, from The Atlantic’s CityLab.

Surely we can figure out the refugee crisis

I know it’s more complicated than this, but in 1883, Emma Lazarus wrote: Not like the brazen giant of Greek fame, With conquering limbs astride from land to land; Here at our sea-washed, sunset gates shall stand A mighty woman with a torch, whose flame Is the imprisoned lightning, and her name Mother of Exiles. …

Spanish health care providers say yes to caring for immigrants

The Spanish government has cut funding to programs that provide health care to undocumented workers. Now see if you can figure out what the health care providers are saying in this ads.

What do you think of the Supreme Court’s decision on Arizona?

Yesterday, the Supreme Court struck down part of Arizona’s draconian immigration law, but left intact the controversial “show us your papers” part. Too bad. That portion has shown itself to be particularly worthless. The decision certainly hasn’t cleared things up for Arizona police. If you haven’t already, you can read the decision here: 11-182b5e1

I heart Hartford. Yes. Hartford.

I has in Hartford last night — at Bushnell Park— for a picnic. My cousin has been visiting from  Missouri, and as they’re leaving bright and early this morning, we wanted to get everyone together for one last hurrah. (That photo is of two cousins, playing a toddler’s version of soccer. The delighted little boy …