Ideas worth spreading

The humans at the center of the US immigration debate

1,603,776 views | Ali Noorani • TEDxBoston

How does a nation reconcile when its identity is at odds with its policies? Ali Noorani traces the arc of the US immigration debate to show a safer and more compassionate way forward, highlighting why centering human dignity creates lasting bonds and healthier communities.

How does a nation reconcile when its identity is at odds with its policies? Ali Noorani traces the arc of the US immigration debate to show a safer and more compassionate way forward, highlighting why centering human dignity creates lasting bonds and healthier communities.

This talk was presented to a local audience at TEDxBoston, an independent event. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Read more about TEDx.

Follow the National Immigration Forum for the latest news and information on immigration.

Stay informed and take action by calling your member of Congress, urging them to move forward with immigration reforms.

About the speaker

Ali Noorani

Migrant advocate

See speaker profile

Ali Noorani has traveled the world listening to the stories of migrants -- along with the stories of those who welcome them and those who fear them.

Jia Lynn Yang | W. W. Norton & Company, 2021 | Book

One Mighty and Irresistible Tide: The Epic Struggle Over Immigration 1824-1965

Jia Lynn Yang's book is one of the best accounts of the United States' complicated history as a nation of immigrants.

Ali Noorani | Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2022 | Book

Crossing Borders: The Reconciliation of a Nation of Immigrants

My most recent book paints the picture of how the global migration debate leads to the rise of authoritarianism, and what must be done in response.

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This talk was presented to a local audience at TEDxBoston, an independent event. TED's editors chose to feature it for you.

Read more about TEDx.

Follow the National Immigration Forum for the latest news and information on immigration.

Stay informed and take action by calling your member of Congress, urging them to move forward with immigration reforms.