Ronald Reagan on Immigration
TL;DR
Ronald Reagan viewed immigrants as the vital life force renewing America, balancing enforcement with granting status to those already present.
Key Points
He signed the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, which included increased enforcement and legalization for nearly three million undocumented immigrants.
He believed immigrants were 'one of the most important sources of America's greatness' because they continuously renewed the nation with energy and new ideas.
In a 1977 radio address, he questioned the 'illegal alien fuss,' noting that they often performed work Americans were unwilling to do, like harvesting crops.
Summary
Ronald Reagan held a deeply idealistic view of immigration, frequently asserting that the country’s strength derived from its unique capacity to draw people from every corner of the earth to become Americans. He saw this continuous renewal as essential to maintaining America's global leadership and innovative edge, often referencing the Statue of Liberty as a beacon for those yearning for freedom and opportunity. This belief was a core tenet of his vision for a 'shining city upon a hill,' where the doors were open to anyone with the will and heart to arrive. This philosophical stance was expressed throughout his political career, including in his farewell address in January 1989.
However, his actions reflected a dual approach, seeking to blend this idealism with necessary legal structure. The most significant action taken was signing the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, a comprehensive measure that included stepped-up border enforcement and employer sanctions. Critically, this law also legalized approximately 2.8 million undocumented workers who had resided in the U.S. before 1982, a provision Reagan supported, believing it was a moral necessity for those who had established roots. This demonstrated an evolving position that acknowledged the need for order while prioritizing a humane resolution for those already settled.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ronald Reagan frequently stated that immigrants were among the most important sources of America's greatness. He believed that by drawing people from every corner of the world, the nation continuously renewed and enriched itself. He saw this influx of new arrivals as the quality that kept America forever young and leading the world.
Yes, Ronald Reagan supported amnesty for those who had put down roots and lived in the country for a significant period, even if they entered illegally. This position was formalized when he signed the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, which granted legal status to about 2.8 million people.
While championing an open ideal, Reagan also signed legislation intended to establish a 'reasonable, fair, orderly, and secure system of immigration.' The 1986 Act included provisions for increased enforcement and employer sanctions. His stated objective was humane control rather than discrimination against specific people or nations.
Sources7
RONALD REAGAN: Immigrants -- 'Most important sources of America's greatness'
Reagan Embraced Free Trade and Immigration
When Reagan Gave Amnesty: Remembering the 1986 Immigration Reform That Legalized 3 Million People
Remarks on Signing the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986
The Source of Reagan's Powerful Perspective on America and Immigration
Immigration During Ronald Reagan's Presidency
Reagan's Last Speech As President Was Pro-Immigration : r/USHistory
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.