The Importance of Immigrant Workers in America’s Job Market
Introduction:
The strong jobs market in the United States has been significantly supported by the immigrant workforce, particularly in fields such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare. As Americans age out of the labor force and birth rates remain low, economists and the Federal Reserve recognize the vital role that immigrant workers play in ensuring future economic growth. In fact, immigrant workers accounted for a record-breaking 18.6% of the workforce last year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The Growing Contribution of Immigrant Workers:
The increasing reliance on immigrant workers is not only beneficial to employers but also projected to boost the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). According to Congressional Budget Office Director Phillip Swagel, the influx of immigrant workers is expected to contribute $7 trillion to the US economy over the next decade. Swagel’s statement accompanying the 2024-2034 CBO outlook highlights that the larger labor force resulting from higher net immigration will lead to greater GDP and increased revenues.
Addressing Labor Shortages:
One organization heavily reliant on immigrant workers is Goodwin Living, a nonprofit elder-care facility in Northern Virginia. CEO Rob Liebreich reveals that approximately 40% of their workforce is foreign-born, representing 65 different countries. As the demand for long-term care increases with an aging population, Goodwin Living recognizes the need for more workers to fill the growing gaps in the labor force. Liebreich emphasizes that about 70% of 65-year-olds are expected to require long-term care in the future.
Goodwin Living’s Citizenship Program:
To address this need for more workers, Goodwin Living launched a citizenship program in 2018. This program provides resources, mentorship, and tutoring for workers seeking U.S. citizenship. So far, 160 workers and 25 of their family members have either obtained citizenship or are in the process of doing so through Goodwin. This initiative not only benefits the workers but also helps Goodwin Living attract and retain a diverse global workforce.
The Success Story of Wilner Vialer:
Wilner Vialer, a worker at Goodwin Living, shares his success story as an immigrant worker. After losing his job during the pandemic, Vialer found an opportunity at Goodwin Living due to his mother’s previous employment at the facility. He applied for U.S. citizenship before joining Goodwin and, after six months of employment, the Goodwin Living Foundation covered his application fee. Vialer became a U.S. citizen in 2021, and his daughter also received a citizenship grant and became a citizen in 2023. Vialer highlights the support his job provides for him and his family back home in Haiti.
The Benefits of the Citizenship Program:
Goodwin Living’s citizenship program not only helps workers obtain U.S. citizenship but also encourages them to stay with the organization. CEO Rob Liebreich reveals that workers who participate in the program tend to stay with Goodwin 20% longer than those who do not. This demonstrates the value of investing in immigrant workers and providing them with pathways to citizenship. Liebreich emphasizes that speeding up the path to citizenship is crucial for remaining competitive in the global economy.
Looking Ahead:
As the November presidential election approaches, immigration remains a hot topic for both candidates and voters. Both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have addressed the issue of migrants entering the country by making trips to the southern border. The importance of immigrant workers in the labor force and their contribution to economic growth will continue to be a significant point of discussion during the campaign.
Conclusion:
The role of immigrant workers in America’s job market is crucial for ensuring economic growth, addressing labor shortages, and supporting industries such as agriculture, technology, and healthcare. As evidenced by Goodwin Living’s citizenship program, providing resources and support for immigrants to obtain U.S. citizenship not only benefits the workers but also helps organizations attract and retain a diverse global workforce. With the upcoming presidential election, immigration will remain a prominent topic, highlighting the importance of finding effective solutions to address the influx of migrants and harness the potential of immigrant workers for future economic prosperity.
