Lyndsay Fogarty
Nearly 70% of America’s biggest cities are more racially diverse than they were in 2010, signifying that multiculturalism is a growing trend. On a state level, Florida grabbed the 8th spot in the list of top 10 most diverse states, ahead of Nevada and Arizona. The ranking by WalletHub was based on socio-economic, religious, political, cultural, and economic diversity. Diversity offers several benefits enriching societies and spurring economic growth.
Cultural Diversity
Behind California, New York and Texas, the Sunshine State has the 4th highest immigration population in the country with about one in five Florida residents foreign-born, and one in eight having an immigrant parent. Most immigrants hail from the Caribbean, Latin, South and Central America, and places as far as Asia and Africa also contribute to the delightful mix of cultures, lifestyles and cuisines. The communities and businesses in the state are also lead and served by people from all walks of life.
Unfortunately, immigration has become a hot topic because those that come to Florida without legal papers cost the state money. On the other hand, it cannot be denied that America is a land of immigrants who have helped to build the nation. Experts at the Florida Immigration Law Counsel believe that a functioning immigration system can in fact be responsive to the changing needs of the state and the country. It can help people on various immigration matters such as citizenship, green cards, and employment for non-citizens.
Contribution To Economic Growth
Without a doubt, a diverse group of people contribute to the state’s growing economy, generating jobs through immigrant-owned businesses and the presence of international students. There are also several Fortune 500 companies founded by immigrants or their children. In fact, a study by MoneyWatch suggested that for every 10,000 immigrants, around 62 people will start a business.
Florida’s economy depends on businesses, and a significant percentage of immigrants own companies in the state’s metropolitan areas. They know what it takes to succeed in America, driven by a burning ambition and an eagerness to take risks. Take the case of CubeCare, a multimillion dollar custom curtain business. Founded by Susana Robledo in her small apartment, it is now among the top 500 Hispanic-owned businesses in the U.S. Says Robledo, “It’s my philosophy about immigration that we are guests here, so we have to be on our best behavior when we are here and we have to contribute to our communities.” There are many examples of immigrants making a success out of their lives, making a name for themselves, and at the same time, giving back to their communities. One example is Roberto Torres, who started his business by peddling T-shirts from the trunk of his car to boutiques along the Floridian coasts. Torres said, “We bring a hard work ethic, we have an acute sense of community. And finally, this ability to find an opportunity and we can make it better than anybody else.”
Multiculturalism and diversity offer many advantages, encouraging a better understanding and acceptance of cultural differences. Diversity also generates a wider talent pool, promotes innovation through new businesses, creates jobs, and contributes to economic growth.
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