
There are more than 45 million immigrants residing in America in 2024. Among these, the largest origin groups are from India (6%), the Philippines (4%), China (5%), and El Salvador (3%). The number of immigrants from different parts of the world in one country means diversification of culture, tradition, language, etc. For instance, people who come from China in America might prefer to have Běi jīng kǎo yā (Peking Duck, the national dish of China) over a cheeseburger.
With people coming from different countries, it has also affected the values, norms, and traditions of American society. You might see people eating diverse delicacies that belong to another continent to explore taste diversification. Due to this reason, people are also changing their taste of fashion, food choices, etc.
Everyone likes to explore different cultures, traditions, and languages. The number of immigrants in American Society is the door to exploration for native Americans. Along with this, technological advancement has also been a doorway for people to explore and learn new cultures, traditions, languages, and habits.
Let’s explore how immigrants have been impacting American society in a more effortless manner. Key areas of American society that are being impacted by immigrants are:
1. Economic Contributions
Immigrants help in representing a significant portion of the U.S. that contributes to the key industries. It is not only about culture or traditional diversification but also the differences in skill and talent. People from different cultures learn and grow with different talents and mindsets, which has also been impacting overall American society. Based on studies, immigrants are more likely to start a business than native Americans. Their contribution to society has also been bringing about changes. For instance, an Indian has an authentic Indian restaurant in America.
2. Cultural Influence
America has already become a place that is culturally rich, as people from all over the world live in the country to share and blend their cultures. Immigrants have already introduced music, art, religious practices, and literature. This diversification has also enriched American culture. Immigrants also contribute to the linguistic diversity with more than 350 languages.
3. Social and Demographic Impact
Immigrants mostly have larger families, which contributes to the population growth of the country. They generally settle in urban areas, which also contributes to the growth of cities and metro areas. This helps to revitalize neighborhoods, especially in cities that have faced depopulation or economic decline. With the help of immigrants, American society has gained growth through labor and entrepreneurship.
4. Globalization and International Relations
Immigration means people from different countries of origin living in another country. These people create transactional connections between the U.S. and their country of origin. These global networks help facilitate trade, diplomacy, and cultural exchange. America is also one of the key destinations for people searching for asylum and refugees.
5. Impact on Healthcare and Education
Immigrants are making up a significant portion of nurses, doctors, caregivers, and other medical professionals. There are many immigrant healthcare professionals who have been a great help during the times of COVID-19. This demographic has also helped in addressing shortages in medical staffing, particularly in underserved areas. There are many immigrant children who excel in schools in America and contribute to the cultural diversity of the country.
The main matter of fact is that the whole world is our home, and in that concept it is about unity and learning through togetherness. Here, immigrants can be taken as major contributors to this fact. With different culture, tradition, language, and lifestyle, immigrants have been contributing to American society. Apparently immigrants have been providing diverse benefits to American society and creating a sense of global unity.