Integration and Citizenship

In recent years, there has been a great deal of controversy over the efforts of some banks to offer financial services to individuals without Social Security numbers, many of whom are undocumented immigrants. More and more banks now allow people to open checking and savings accounts and to apply for credit cards and home mortgages using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) or an identification card issued by a foreign consulate in the United States. In February of 2007, for instance, Bank of America announced a pilot program in Los Angeles offering credit cards to individuals who lack either a social security number or a credit history, provided that they have ITINs.

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Published On: Thu, Mar 01, 2007 | Download File

Most of the border-enforcement and immigration-reform proposals currently being considered in Washington, DC, are not comprehensive or adequate solutions to the issue of undocumented immigration. The process of North American economic integration, and development within Mexico itself, create structural conditions that encourage Mexican migration to the United States. Read more...

Published On: Mon, Feb 06, 2006 | Download File

International education and cultural exchange programs continue to offer foreign students an important perspective on American society. Government agencies discuss new measures to improve student visa process.

Published On: Sat, Feb 02, 2002 | Download File

U.S. officials expect this year's Winter Games to promote greater international cooperation and peace. Immigrant athletes realize their Olympic dreams as members of the U.S team.

Published On: Sat, Feb 02, 2002 | Download File

Immigration is inextricably part of the American national identity and always has been. Immigrants are an integral part of the structural fiber that has kept the great melting pot flowing with creative ingenuity. The immigrants of times long past laid the framework for this great nation with their blood, sweat and tears.

Published On: Mon, Apr 01, 2002 | Download File

A recent study by the University of Florida confirms that immigrants in Miami are assimilating into American society faster than ever before. For scholars, a rise in earnings, English proficiency, and integrated communities indicate immigrants are anxious to fit in.

Published On: Tue, Apr 02, 2002 | Download File

From humble beginnings, Indian immigrants have overcome great odds to become one of the most influential communities in American society today.

Published On: Sun, Jun 02, 2002 | Download File

Although the immigrant population increased during the past decade, the 2000 U.S. Census indicates that the rate of assimilation is keeping pace. Recent studies show that improved English language education may lead to an increase in this rate and help immigrants achieve their goals of a more complete integration into American society.

Published On: Tue, Jul 02, 2002 | Download File

A recent study by the Little Hoover Commission suggests that California policymakers need to consider new public programs in order to successfully assimilate immigrants. The Commission's recommendations attempt to align federal immigration policy with the interests of state and community integration.

Published On: Tue, Oct 01, 2002 | Download File

As American troops, including many immigrants, are now engaged in military action in Iraq, the Immigration Policy Center has updated its fact sheet about the role and participation of immigrants in the U.S. Armed Forces.

Published On: Sat, Mar 01, 2003 | Download File