The battle to finally craft meaningful immigration policy looms large in both the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election, and U.S. Politics.

Migration crisis continues at Mexico-United States border

CIUDAD JUAREZ, MEXICO -APRIL 23, 2024: Around 300 migrants gather this morning on the Rio Grande, at gate 40 of the border wall, after arriving in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico last night on the train on April 23, 2024. Foreigners seek to cross to the North American side, however the barbed wire fence makes it difficult for them, as the surveillance is maintained by the Texas National Guard. For their part, elements of the National Migration Institute (INM) on the Mexican side conduct tours of the area and try to arrest these people, however as soon as they approach them, they run towards the river to avoid it. When consulted, the migrants, mostly Venezuelans, commented that they arrived at the border aboard the train and quickly decided to move on board. As they have explained to them, gate 40 could be a good place to enter the United States, however the passage is covered with mesh and surveillance by volunteer soldiers. They mentioned that they will continue looking for a way to cross the current and enter the United States, in search of the American dream, despite the risk of being sent to the south of the continent on planes, beyond Mexico. (Photo by Christian Torres/Anadolu via Getty Images)

By Jade Lopez, CRDN
Tuesday, August 27, 2024

Crafting meaningful immigration policy is a complexity that involves tackling a plethora of challenges such as national security, economic needs, cultural considerations, humanitarian policies, social solutions, and political headwinds.

Immigration has been one of the leading factors in presidential proposals, seemingly, for centuries. Nationally, policymakers and lobbyist have unsuccessfully curated proposed laws and regulations, as the U.S. Congress has been unable to find common ground for purposes of passing legislation of comprehensive immigration reform. According to the American Immigration Council, as of 2022, 13.8% (46 million people) of the United States population are foreign-born individuals, half of whom are naturalized citizens. An estimated 11 million immigrants are believed to be illegally residing in the United States. Despite creating policies that aim to reduce the number of unlawful aliens attempting to cross the border, those who arrive in America on visas and overstay the allotted time granted to them make up a significant portion of the undocumented population, a number far higher than those who crossed the border illegally.

Utilizing this national data and research helps us understand how great the need is for practices such as deportation, rehabilitation, and citizenship tests. As for lawful immigrants, developing policies that help them integrate into society, such as assisting in language training, equal access to education, job placement, and health programs will better help the contribution of these groups. Additionally, granting temporary work permits and authorizations would be an essential part of allowing immigrants to contribute to America’s workforce and our nation’s economy.

Considering that many humans are searching for better opportunities or lives for their families begs the question of what humanitarian policies can be implemented into the United States’ immigration policy. Prioritizing the protection of natural-born United States citizens is just as important as protecting vulnerable populations such as asylum seekers and refugees. Implementing legislation to protect those fleeing deadly situations, while also adding efficient and rigorous laws that do not harm existing citizens is a key component for a harmonic nation.

Managing our border patrol in a manner that is fair and just while respecting human rights could mean more intense training, adding higher-grade technology, or upping the number of guards on the watch to help combat the number of undocumented immigrants sneaking in. Advocating for more immigration reform can help prevent inconsistencies in policies. Establishing various feedback systems can help gauge the public’s opinion on how our current laws are doing, and provide an important space for suggestions on how to improve the U.S. immigration system. By effectively utilizing these strategies, government officials and politicians can strategize and work together to create immigration policies that benefit our citizens and society as a whole.