SW Illinois News: Illinois district relies on immigrant businesses, workers

Immigrants account for 14 percent of the Illinois population, but they make up about 22 percent of the state’s entrepreneurs — translating to more than $2 billion in business in 2014 alone.

Those statistics are part of the New American Economy’s “Map the Impact,” a recently released report that showcases immigration contributions to all 435 congressional districts in the United States. As a whole, Illinois is home to about 1.8 million immigrants — the sixth-most of any state. The report shows them working in a wide range of capacities, from metal work to software development.

The immigration population in Illinois’ district 12 is just over 17,000, or approximately 2.4 percent of the total population. The district includes the counties of Jefferson, Franklin, Williamson, Union, Alexander, Pulaski, Jackson, Randolph, St. Clair and part of Madison. It is represented by Republican Congressman Mike Bost.

Approximately 5 percent of the local immigrant population is employed in the arts, entertainment, accommodations and food service. Another 4.7 percent work in general services and 4 percent are in the wholesale trade. Other sectors that contain a significant immigrant population include manufacturing, waste management services, administration and management.

Read the full story from SW Illinois News: “Illinois district relies on immigrant businesses, workers”