06b - Historic and Current Migration

Immigration

the international movement of people to a destination country where they do not hold nationality, with the intent to settle there as permanent residents

Emigration

the act of leaving one’s home country or place of residence to settle permanently or temporarily in another country

Brain Drain

the large-scale emigration or departure of educated, technically skilled professionals - such as doctors, engineers, scientists, and researchers - from one country, region, or organization to another

National Origins System

encouraged immigrants from northern and western Europe while limiting immigrants from other regions

Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965

• this landmark act abolished the national origins system, replacing it with a preference system focused on family reunification and skilled immigrants

• this led to a significant increase in immigration from non-European countries and a tripling of overall immigration numbers by the 21st century

Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) of 1986

this act attempted to address unauthorized immigration by increasing border security, penalizing employers of unauthorized workers, and providing a pathway to legal status for a large number of undocumented immigrants

Accidental Americans

a term for children born to international workers or international students who have American citizenship but leave with their parents

DACA (Deferred action for childhood arrivals)

grants protection from deportation to individuals who were brought to U.S. as children and meet specific criteria

TPS (Temporary protected status)

a humanitarian relief designation for individuals from countries experiencing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other extraordinary conditions that prevent their safe return