Expert Research and Solutions on U.S. Immigration Policy Reform

Immigration In America: A Research-Driven Perspective

Immigration has long been a defining feature of the U.S., shaping its economy, communities, and cultural landscape. From historical waves of newcomers to today’s immigrants seeking opportunity and stability, migration continues to play an important role in the nation’s story, all while political attention on immigration policy has risen to new heights.

The Scholars Strategy Network includes researchers who study today’s most pressing immigration challenges. Explore briefs and No Jargon podcast episodes, where SSN members discuss current policies and share research-based solutions.

Featured Policy Briefs on Immigration

How Expanded Migrant Detention Drives Profiteering and Leads to Tougher Immigration Policies

By Nancy Hiemstra and Deirdre Conlon

The expansion of U.S. immigration detention creates financial incentives for private companies and local governments, leading to harsher enforcement policies and human rights abuses.

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U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and police

How North Carolina's State Agencies Collaborate with ICE

By Felicia Arriaga

North Carolina's state agencies collaborate with ICE through voluntary agreements and discretionary practices, reinforcing federal immigration enforcement despite local efforts to limit cooperation.

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President William J. Clinton Signing H.R. 2254, the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1993

How America's 1996 Immigration Act Set the Stage for Increasingly Localized and Tough Enforcement

By Yalidy Matos

The 1996 Immigration Act laid the foundation for increasingly localized immigration enforcement, enabling state and local law enforcement to collaborate with federal authorities and expanding deportation efforts nationwide.

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How Legacies of Racism Persist in U.S. Immigration Policy

By David Cook-Martín & David Scott FitzGerald

Racial bias continues to shape U.S. immigration policy, with historical preferences for European immigrants persisting through modern visa systems and enforcement practices.

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View more related briefs

Featured Podcast Episodes on Immigration

Two ICE officers arresting an individual, whose hands are handcuffed behind their back

The Ripple Effects of Immigration Raids

William D. Lopez

Lopez breaks down the emotional, financial, and health consequences of immigration enforcement actions like raids on families and communities.

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Supporting the Needs of Refugees

Anna Nicole Kreisberg

Kreisberg details how the U.S. job placement system falls short for refugees and what changes are needed to better support refugee resettlement and long-term integration.

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