Let Them In! Six Myths About Immigration, with Jason Riley

Opponents of immigration claim that it erodes cultural identity, creates social disharmony, and leads to unemployment among native citizens. The rise of Islamic extremism has fuelled concerns over the social and cultural impact of immigration, while the current economic downturn is likely to fuel concerns over its impact on employment. Meanwhile, the headline on today’s Daily Mail reads “All Party Call for Cap on Migrants” – with a coalition of public figures calling for an annual limit of 20,000 non-EU migrants.

In Let Them In: The Case for Open Borders (Gotham, 2008), journalist Jason Riley challenges these claims. He points out that for two centuries, immigrants have played an essential role in creating economic prosperity. Writing specifically about the US context, he argues that if the US wishes to continue to remain an economic powerhouse, it should maintain a more liberal immigration policy.

At this luncheon discussion, Jason will explore six myths that fuel the immigration debate on both sides of the Atlantic. He will discuss current attitudes in America towards immigration, and the historic and current assimilation of immigrants.

RSVP or for more information: Denise Teixeira, denise //at policynetwork.net, 020 7836 0750.