Experts Discuss Immigration Policy and Solutions at FIU Panel Event

Experts Gather at FIU for Thoughtful Discussion on Immigration

Immigration has been a contentious issue in U.S. politics, but a recent event at Florida International University (FIU) showed that healthy debate and discussion can take place without drama or division. A diverse group of experts came together to discuss migration, immigration, and refugee flows in the United States, offering insights into the current state of immigration policy and potential ways forward.

The panel, moderated by Enrique Gonzalez, a corporate immigration lawyer and former special counsel on immigration to U.S. Senator Marco Rubio, included public policy experts with backgrounds and philosophies from across the political spectrum. The discussion covered a range of topics, from balancing national security and humanitarian considerations to the criteria for determining immigration status and citizenship.

One key theme that emerged from the discussion was the importance of approaching immigration as a nonpartisan issue. Panelists emphasized the need to prioritize both aid and protection for immigrants, highlighting real-life stories of individuals who have faced challenges in navigating the immigration system.

The panel also debated the balance between family reunification and individual merit in immigration policy. While some panelists advocated for a merit-based system to attract individuals with specialized skills, others stressed the importance of maintaining family reunification as a core American value.

Overall, the event showcased the complexity of immigration policy and the need for collaboration and discussion among individuals with diverse perspectives. Audience members, including students, faculty, staff, and community members, found the discussion enriching and thought-provoking.

The event was hosted by FIU’s Office of Public Policy Events, which aims to promote education and civic engagement through open discussions and debate forums on public policy issues. The series will continue with a Foreign Policy Debate on November 28, inviting speakers to discuss why Americans should care about foreign affairs.

As the immigration debate continues to evolve, events like these provide a platform for meaningful dialogue and exploration of potential solutions. By bringing together experts with differing viewpoints, FIU is fostering a culture of open-mindedness and respectful discourse on complex issues like immigration.