The data is in – welcoming immigrants to our state and our communities benefits us all, according to new research compiled by the Immigration Policy Center.

 It shows that:

·      Immigrant entrepreneurs generated $1.2 billion in business revenues in Colorado in 2010. Almost 10 percent of Colorado business owners  are immigrants, creating jobs and helping local communities thrive.

·      Nearly a quarter of all graduates in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields from Colorado’s top research universities in 2009 were immigrants, adding to Colorado’s trove of knowledge-based industries and increasing Colorado’s competitiveness.

 ·      Expanding the number of visas for high-skilled workers in the state would add 5,600 new jobs by 2020 and more than $2 billion to Colorado’s economy over the next 20 years.

Luckily, Colorado leads the way in creating initiatives that welcome new immigrants and build cohesive communities, according to IPC. The state recently became the first in the country to repeal its anti-immigrant “show-me-your-papers” law. It made a quality state university or college education a little more affordable for immigrant children by passing a tuition equity bill. And local communities, like Denver, Boulder and Littleton, have started both public and private “welcoming” programs that help support immigrants and foster mutual trust and understanding amid cultural differences.

But Colorado can do more and we should start by committing to immigrant kids. This November, voters should approve Amendment 66, the ballot initiative that will fund the education reforms already passed by the legislature this spring. Those reforms increased support for English-language learners, ensuring that our newest Americans – immigrant children – will get the head start they need to succeed. 

A stronger economy and brighter future for Colorado depend on it.

Learn more about 66 at the Colorado Commits to Kids Campaign.