Immigrants play vital role in Michigan

This fall I had the opportunity to travel to New Mexico for a gathering of advocates and researchers focused on the contributions of immigrants across the U.S. I met so many wonderful people from Washington, Idaho, and Utah to Florida, Virginia and Maine. And although we arrived from different parts of the country, we all shared a deep passion for amplifying the humanity and dignity of immigrants choosing to call the U.S. home.

The conversations were especially timely, given the current political climate when we have witnessed numerous political candidates up and down ballots use immigrants as scapegoats for their mailers and TV ads. Each choosing to stoke fear and resentment for personal gain.

In response, we discussed how we might fortify a more honest picture of the immigrant experience in the U.S. rather than letting divisive rhetoric defeat us.

We also shared inspiring stories of policy wins and organizing successes. I had the chance to highlight Michigan’s progress, as well as areas where we still have work to do. 

I noted Michigan’s adoption and recent implementation of the Immigrant Children’s Health Improvement Act (ICHIA) option, which waives the five-year waiting period for Medicaid/Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage for lawfully present immigrants. And on the health coverage front, there was much-shared enthusiasm for newly eligible DACA recipients who, as of November 1, can shop for health insurance through the individual marketplace, joining other groups with deferred action status who have had access since the inception of the Affordable Care Act.

I also talked about how immigrants are vital to Michigan’s workforce and long-term growth and competitiveness, not only filling labor shortages in our state but also driving innovation and entrepreneurship. By continuing to support inclusive policies, we can ensure Michigan remains a welcoming state that attracts talent and boosts economic growth for everyone.

As I listened to the successes achieved by my peers from other states—some after working in coalitions for decades—I gained renewed confidence in Michigan’s ability to aim even higher. 

My visit to New Mexico—the adobe homes, chili peppers, hot air balloons, and stunning landscapes—was beautiful, but what struck me most was a piece of advice shared by a veteran colleague. I had been feeling overwhelmed as I navigated a new area of policy work, especially given the complexity of immigration law. She reassured me, saying, “You’re not being asked to be an immigration lawyer. Advocating for immigrants is housing and workforce development and healthcare policy.” And that perspective really clicked for me.

With a federal administration that is poised to stoke fear and create harmful immigration policies in 2025, it is important that all of us, regardless of our expertise, work to create a sense of belonging in Michigan. Th​is work asks only to bring the immigrant experience to the fore, to find opportunities to recognize immigrants’ incredible contributions and ​to ​build, through the collective strength of partners nationwide, a more inclusive and prosperous future for all of us.