Immigrants in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has a history of immigration dating back to America’s first settlements of newcomers, when English pilgrims arrived to build colonies along the New England coast. These immigrants went on to establish some of the foundational institutions of American life, including the nation’s first university.Immigrants continue to play a vital role in Massachusetts today, making up 16 percent of the state’s population. A fifth of the Massachusetts labor force is foreign born, with immigrants supporting the state’s healthcare, science, and service industries, among others. As workers, business owners, taxpayers, and neighbors, immigrants are an integral part of Massachusetts’ diverse and thriving communities and make extensive contributions that benefit all.
American Immigration Council. (2017). Immigrants in Massachusetts. Retrieved from https://www.americanimmigrationcouncil.org/sites/default/files/research/immigrants_in_massachusetts.pdf