Sources 

This article draws on statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau (using its most recent 2023 American Community Survey [ACS], 2024 Current Population Survey [CPS], and 2000 decennial census); the U.S. Departments of Homeland Security (DHS) and State; and the Migration Policy Institute (MPI).

Note: DHS and State Department data refer to fiscal years that begin on October 1 and end on September 30; Census Bureau data refer to calendar years.

Abstract: 

Colorado has a sizable community of immigrants, over 40 percent of whom are naturalized citizens. About 9.6 percent of the state's residents are foreign-born, and 5.7 percent of its U.S.-born residents live with at least one immigrant parent. Immigrants make up 11.6 percent of Colorado's labor force and support the state's economy in many ways. They account for 13.1 percent of entrepreneurs, 12.2 percent of STEM workers, and 20.7 percent of the construction workforce in the state. As neighbors, business owners, taxpayers, and workers, immigrants are an integral part of Colorado's diverse and thriving communities and make extensive contributions that benefit all. 

Abstract: 

Many people wonder why all immigrants do not just come to the United States legally or simply apply for citizenship while living here without authorization. These suggestions miss the point: There is no line available for current undocumented immigrants and the "regular channels" are largely not available to prospective immigrants who end up entering the country through unauthorized channels. Even though more than 80 percent of undocumented immigrants have lived in the United States for over 10 years,1 many could live out the rest of their lives without any opportunity to become legal residents of this country.

ABSTRACT: 

The scapegoating of ethnic and religious minorities is well-tread historical ground in the United States, and immigrants have always made for an easy target. Chinese,1 Irish,2 Italian,3 Muslim,4 Mexican5 — all these people and more have been falsely accused of bringing crime into the United States, particularly during times of economic or political unease.