The presidential election is looming closer, and Michigan has already taken to the polls to vote in the primary. Last Tuesday the citizens of Michigan spoke, and Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump both prevailed for their parties.
Though there is still much to be decided before election day, it is important to take close note on each candidate’s position on important issues that will impact our state. One topic that has been adamantly pressed, especially so in the Trump campaign, is immigration.
Donald Trump is a presidential candidate that stands out because he is willing to speak strongly about many hot topic issues in a way that often stirs emotional reactions with the public. In regards to immigration, Trump's campaign is centered on putting harsher restrictions on Muslim and Mexican immigrants to strengthen our economy and increase homeland security.
As a Michigan native and resident, I recognize the important presence of immigrants in our state.
According to the American Immigration Council, immigrants make up 6.2% of our state's population. Both foreign and native born Latinos and Asians in Michigan wield $21.6 billion in consumer purchasing power.
Additionally, Michigan has the highest proportion of Arab Americans in the nation, all of whom create $544 million in annual state tax revenue. Looking at these numbers I ask myself, is it wise to discriminate against and alienate a community that holds so much economic strength in our state?
I believe it is time to start appreciating the value of immigrants and seeing the importance they hold not just in Michigan, but our country as a whole.
Morgan Guy is a social work graduate student.
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