IRI Insights

Thoughtful analysis and timely perspectives from the Immigration Research Initiative team on the latest news, activism, reports from others, and more.

What we’re … thinking reading hearing doing supporting

September 8, 2026

A New Program Connecting Immigrant Entrepreneurs to Business Resources

E Pluribus is launching a national peer network to connect immigrant entrepreneurs to business resources and new opportunities to grow their businesses.

September 3, 2026

A New NILC Report Highlights the Impacts ICE is Having on Schools

The National Immigration Law Center published a report last month exploring the impacts ICE activity and mass deportation efforts have had on public schools. The report confirms many of the predictions immigration advocates have made since the Trump administration took office in 2025.

August 25, 2026

From Buffalo to Long Island: New York’s Immigrant Story Beyond New York City

From Buffalo to Long Island, immigrants are helping shape New York’s communities and economy, revealing a statewide immigrant story that extends far beyond New York City.

August 20, 2026

How States Can Fight Back: An Example from New York 

Shamier argues that states are not powerless against federal immigration enforcement policies and can look to New York as a model for how to resist.
August 13, 2026

Three Reports, One Verdict: Mass Deportation Is Costing Everyone

Shamier synthesizes new research from America’s Voice, Economic Policy Institute, and the Immigration Research Initiative to show that mass deportation’s costs — lost jobs, higher prices, billions in public spending — fall on everyone.

August 12, 2026

The Delicate Tightrope of Public Charge Narratives 

The new public charge rule from the Trump administration leaves immigrant rights advocates in a complicated narrative position. Immigrants’ rights groups — as well as state and local agencies, educators, and health and social service providers — must walk the line between communicating the harsh impacts of this new policy without stoking the fear it intends to incite among immigrant groups.

August 4, 2026

When Legal Status is Rescinded: The End of TPS for Haitians

Shamier highlights the FAQ NYC podcast interview with Murad Awawdeh, President of the New York Immigration Coalition, as a key resource for understanding the impact of the ending of TPS for Haitians, and emphasizes emergency planning for families.

July 30, 2026

The Care Crisis We Are Creating: Immigrant Workers Sustain Elder Care. Mass Deportation Threatens It.

As the demand for elder care grows, immigrant caregivers are essential to meeting the nation’s needs— but mass deportation policies could undermine the workforce families rely on every day. 

July 27, 2026

ICE Raids and Employment Loss in Northern New England

David examines the impact on the local economy of Northern New England if immigrants most at risk are arrested.

July 21, 2026

New Street Vendor Reforms Will Dramatically Increase Licenses in NYC-a Historic Win for Entrepreneurs and Immigrants 

Shamier reflects on the journey to reform for Street Vendors and how evidence can help move policy and vendor power forward.

July 16, 2026

ICE Raids Are Hurting Local Businesses

David discusses his take on research that shows that escalating ICE raids are disrupting local economies by driving away customers, straining small businesses, and creating lasting economic consequences for entire communities.

July 9, 2026

Budgets Reflect Our Values: What New York’s FY 2027 Budget Delivers for Immigrants

Shamier highlights how New York’s FY 2027 budget supports immigrant communities through key investments, policy protections, and funding priorities that shape the state’s future.