Refugees and Immigrants

Refugees and immigrants are individuals who relocate from their home countries to another country. Immigrants comprise a broad and diverse population who have migrated for various reasons, like job or education opportunities. Refugees are a specific group of immigrants who are recognized under international law as requiring protection due to the risk of harm in their home country.

The health and well-being of refugees and immigrants are vital for community well-being, economic growth, and cultural diversity. Supporting these populations ensures stronger, more resilient communities and upholds human rights. Additionally, systemic challenges like anti-immigrant sentiment, language barriers, and inequitable access to healthcare, housing, and legal services shape refugee and immigrant experiences. In 2023, there were over 45 million immigrants in the U.S., including more than 3 million refugees and making up 14.3% of the U.S. population.  Many face healthcare, education, and employment barriers, which impact their well-being. Immigrants contribute substantially to the economy, representing over 19% of the U.S. labor force. 

The history of migration in the United States is rich and complex, shaped and marred by a persistent legacy of discrimination. The United States is known for being a nation of immigrants. Anti-immigrant, racist sentiments have fueled efforts to curb immigration, such as restrictive immigration laws including the Chinese Exclusion Act and the Immigration Act of 1924. Current factors influencing immigrants and refugees in the U.S. include restrictive immigration policies, fluctuating refugee resettlement quotas, and global crises such as wars, climate change, and political instability that drive migration. 

Undocumented immigrants, asylum seekers, and refugees from conflict-affected regions face additional barriers to accessing healthcare, housing, and legal protections. Reports of human rights violations at ICE detention centers, such as inadequate medical care, overcrowding, family separations, and abusive treatment, highlight serious concerns about detainees' welfare. Restrictive policies have further limited asylum seekers' access to protection, exacerbating poor conditions in detention facilities, while children in immigrant families face challenges in education, healthcare, and family reunification.

Achieving equity on a global scale requires a commitment to fair and just immigration policies. Refugee resettlement plays a critical role in advancing global health equity by offering protection to those fleeing violence and persecution. Efforts to restrict these programs worsen health disparities worldwide. Policymakers and community organizers can advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, equitable refugee resettlement programs, and inclusive policies. Expanding access to healthcare, education, and legal services is vital for systems change. On a local level, fostering connections between communities, supporting resettlement efforts, and encouraging cultural exchange can enhance social cohesion and integration. Local changemakers can also promote health equity by advocating for universal healthcare, addressing social determinants of health, and ensuring that resources are accessible to everyone, regardless of immigration status.