Due to the vast amounts of misinformation circulating due to the current political climate in the U.S., it is important to clarify facts from fiction. This guide aims to clarify common misconceptions and provide reliable, evidence-based information on the complex topic of U.S. immigration and to examine the very real impacts of current immigration policy.
There are several myths surrounding undocumented immigrants, often fueled by misinformation or political rhetoric. Here are some of the major ones:
Myth 1: Undocumented immigrants don't pay taxes.
Contrary to this belief, many undocumented immigrants contribute to various tax revenues. Those employed often have taxes withheld from their paychecks, including income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes. Additionally, they pay sales taxes on purchases and property taxes through rent or homeownership. The Social Security Administration estimated that in 2010, it collected approximately $13 billion in payroll taxes from workers without legal status.
Source: Vera Institute of Justice
Myth 2: Undocumented immigrants take jobs away from U.S. citizens.
Research indicates that undocumented immigrants often fill essential roles in sectors experiencing labor shortages, such as agriculture, construction, and hospitality. These positions are frequently those that native-born workers are less inclined to pursue. The Brookings Institution notes that while the impact of immigrant labor on native-born workers' wages is minimal, immigrants often undertake demanding jobs that others are unwilling to perform.
Source: International Institute of New England
Myth 3: Undocumented immigrants are more likely to commit crimes.
Studies consistently show that immigrants, including those without legal status, have lower crime rates than native-born citizens. For instance, research in Texas found that U.S.-born citizens are more than twice as likely to be arrested for violent crimes compared to undocumented immigrants.
Source: NorthWestern University
Myth 4: Undocumented immigrants overburden public services.
While undocumented immigrants do access some public services, they are ineligible for many federal benefits, such as Social Security, Medicare, and welfare programs. Moreover, their tax contributions often offset the limited services they use. Studies have found that immigrants contribute more in taxes than they consume in public benefits.
Source: Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy
Myth 5: Undocumented immigrants refuse to assimilate.
Evidence suggests that immigrants, regardless of legal status, often pursue integration into American society by learning English, participating in the workforce, and engaging in community activities. Their children frequently achieve higher educational levels and English proficiency, further contributing to societal integration.
Source: Carnegie Corporation
