The Center for Immigration Studies (CIS) is a non-profit research organization based in Washington, D.C. that focuses on the impact of immigration on the United States. Founded in 1985, CIS is one of the leading think tanks on immigration policy, providing analysis and research on a wide range of immigration-related issues, including border security, immigration enforcement, and the economic and demographic impacts of immigration.
History and Mission
The Center for Immigration Studies was founded by Otis L. Graham, Jr., a historian and demographer who had previously served as a professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Graham’s goal in establishing CIS was to provide a forum for scholarly research and debate on immigration issues, with a focus on the social, economic, and environmental impacts of immigration on the United States. Today, CIS is led by Mark Krikorian, a prominent immigration expert and author who has written extensively on immigration policy and its effects on American society.
Research and Analysis
CIS produces a wide range of research products, including reports, papers, and articles on various aspects of immigration policy. The organization’s research is focused on providing a factual and data-driven understanding of the impacts of immigration, with a particular emphasis on the effects of immigration on the U.S. economy, population growth, and national security. CIS has published research on topics such as the fiscal costs of immigration, the impact of immigration on wages and employment, and the role of immigration in shaping American demographics.
Some of the key areas of research focus for CIS include:
- Border security and immigration enforcement
- The economic impacts of immigration, including the effects on wages, employment, and public finances
- Demographic change and population growth, including the impact of immigration on urbanization and suburbanization
- National security and the relationship between immigration and terrorism
- Immigration policy and reform, including analysis of proposed legislation and regulatory changes
Publications and Media
CIS publishes a range of materials, including reports, papers, and articles, as well as a monthly newsletter and a blog. The organization’s research is frequently cited in major media outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and National Review. CIS experts are also regular contributors to television and radio programs, including CNN, Fox News, and NPR.
Some of the notable publications from CIS include:
| Publication | Description |
|---|---|
| Backgrounder | A monthly newsletter providing analysis and commentary on immigration policy and news |
| Immigration Review | A quarterly journal featuring in-depth research and analysis on immigration issues |
| CIS Blog | A regularly updated blog featuring commentary and analysis from CIS experts |
Impact and Influence
CIS has had a significant impact on the immigration policy debate in the United States, with its research and analysis influencing policymakers, media outlets, and the broader public. The organization’s experts are frequently called upon to testify before Congress and provide commentary to major media outlets. CIS has also played a key role in shaping the immigration policy agenda, with its research and analysis informing debates over issues such as border security, immigration enforcement, and immigration reform.
Some of the key ways in which CIS has influenced the immigration policy debate include:
- Providing research and analysis to inform policy decisions, including testimony before Congress and submissions to regulatory agencies
- Shaping public opinion and debate through media appearances, op-eds, and other forms of commentary
- Informing and influencing the work of other organizations and advocacy groups, including those focused on immigration policy and reform
- Contributing to the development of immigration policy and legislation, including proposed reforms and regulatory changes
What is the mission of the Center for Immigration Studies?
+The mission of the Center for Immigration Studies is to provide research and analysis on the impact of immigration on the United States, with a focus on the social, economic, and environmental effects of immigration.
What types of research does CIS produce?
+CIS produces a range of research products, including reports, papers, and articles on topics such as border security, immigration enforcement, and the economic and demographic impacts of immigration.
How does CIS influence the immigration policy debate?
+CIS influences the immigration policy debate through its research and analysis, which informs policymakers, media outlets, and the broader public. The organization’s experts are frequently called upon to testify before Congress and provide commentary to major media outlets.
