HUMANITY, NOT THREATS: EMBRACING THE ECONOMIC POWER OF IMMIGRANTS
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: February 10, 2025
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February 10, 2025 – Today, more than 130,000 African immigrants and their families call Minnesota home, with the majority residing in the Twin Cities. Their contributions to our state are profound — strengthening our economy, revitalizing our communities, and enriching the cultural fabric of Minnesota. Immigrants, including those from Africa, play an indispensable role in the prosperity of our state and nation.
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Despite this, recent policies from the current administration have sparked deep concern within immigrant communities. Proposed mass deportations extend beyond undocumented individuals, creating widespread fear and uncertainty for families, businesses, and communities across Minnesota and the nation. This is not sustainable.
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According to Basil Ajuo, CEO of Minnesota Africans United, the African Diaspora contributes more than $275 billion to the economy nationally. Here in Minnesota, the African immigrant workforce alone generates over $58 billion in goods and services, more than $7.5 billion in state and federal taxes, and over 300,000 jobs. Sources: Dr. Bruce P Corrie, Concordia University, August 2024.
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Beyond their economic impact, African immigrants enrich the cultural landscape of our communities—bringing diverse traditions, languages, music, art, and entrepreneurial spirit that strengthen the social fabric of our state and nation. These individuals help drive economic growth and contribute to the rich diversity that defines America’s evolving identity.
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Rather than recognizing and embracing these contributions, the current administration is advancing policies that seek to remove millions of immigrants, including Africans from our community. The rhetoric has often been divisive, and the administration’s actions—including the expansion of detention facilities such as Guantanamo Bay—signal an alarming approach to immigration enforcement. Reports indicate that the first group of detained immigrants has already been transferred there, raising concerns among human rights advocates.
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The United States has long been a nation built by immigrants, and throughout its history, diversity has been a source of immense strength. Unfortunately, many immigrants of color continue to face systemic barriers in education, housing, and employment. The recent dismantling of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives underscores the challenges that remain in ensuring equal opportunities for all. At a time when we should be fostering inclusion, policies that isolate and target immigrant communities only serve to weaken our shared future.
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Families should not live in fear of separation. It is deeply troubling that approximately 1,000 children remain separated from their families due to past immigration policies. Many households in our country include both U.S. citizens and undocumented members, underscoring the urgent need for humane and comprehensive immigration policies.
The feelings of isolation and abandonment among the population of immigrant Africans is significant, hurting our ability to contribute to the economy and the cultural diversity we’ve come to embrace here in the United States.
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Now is the time for all who believe in human dignity and the fundamental values of this nation to stand together. America is changing, and diversity will continue to shape its future. It is imperative that we embrace this evolution rather than resist it. Immigrants have long been central to this country's progress, and they will continue to contribute to its success.
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Let us reaffirm our commitment to justice, fairness, and inclusion. Let us work together to support policies that uphold the dignity of all people and recognize the invaluable role of immigrants in shaping a stronger, more united America.
Contact information: Basil Ajuo,
President & Chief Operating Officer
Minnesota Africans United
505-204-5927