God is also vetting immigrants
2 Nephi 1:6-7 says that no one comes to this land unless they are brought by the hand of the Lord. The land is consecrated for those who will serve Him and follow His commandments. This makes it clear: immigrants aren’t here by accident; they’re part of God’s plan. If they serve Him, they are promised liberty and blessings. God Himself is involved in this process.
Immigration: Church Issues New Statement
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has also spoken out on immigration. Their message is about compassion—welcoming those who come to our borders and finding ways to support them. They emphasize the need to follow the law, but also to be compassionate. It’s all about balancing lawful immigration with Christlike compassion. We are meant to care for those on the margins, and that means responding to immigration with kindness.
Jesus showed Himself to the ancestors of Latin-Americans
The Lord gave this land to Latin Americans, and they will be part of building the New Jerusalem. It’s important for us to remember that they are just as much a part of this promise as anyone else. We see this in 3 Nephi 21:14-29. Jesus visited their ancestors for a reason—they have a role in the Lord’s work.
See a video of Jesus speaking to the ancestors of the Latin-Americans
President Nelson on Immigration
President Nelson encourages us to build bridges, not walls. We need to help families stay together. We understand the need for secure boundaries and laws, but we also must remember our duty to love our neighbors. We are our brother’s keeper, and this means reaching out to support immigrants and refugees, not turning them away.
Check out his talk here: Build bridges, not walls.
President Nelson also called on everyone to reject prejudice. This applies to how we treat immigrants too. We can’t call ourselves disciples of Christ if we’re holding onto biases. We need to repent of prejudices and do all we can to uphold the dignity of each person. Elder Soares spoke about this in his talk, quoting President Nelson: See more.
And don’t miss Elder Patrick Kearon’s powerful talk about helping refugees: Conference talk about helping refugees
Many people have misconceptions about immigrants coming from Mexico. We often hear stereotypes that paint these people in a negative light, but the truth is, they are part of God’s work too.
Crime Myths
There are claims out there that countries like Venezuela are sending criminals to the U.S., but these claims aren’t accurate. Check out this FactCheck article to see why those claims are wrong.
We need immigration. Immigrants help keep America strong. They work hard, build up our economy, and enrich our communities. Check out more here: See more.
Blocking Border Security
It’s often said that stronger immigration policies are needed for security, but let’s remember that in 2024, a bipartisan bill to improve border security was blocked, partly due to Trump pushing Senate Republicans to oppose it. Politics can often get in the way of real solutions, and we need to make sure we’re looking at the facts. Here’s more on that:
PBS NewsHour: “Senate Republicans block bipartisan border package” PBS News.
What Studies Say
The data is clear—immigrants, including refugees, are less likely to commit crimes compared to native-born citizens. This isn’t opinion; it’s fact backed up by solid studies.
For example, one study from the “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences” looked at crime rates in Texas and found that undocumented immigrants commit far fewer crimes than native-born citizens. In another study, economist Elisa Jácome found that immigrants were 60% less likely to be incarcerated than U.S.-born citizens since the 1960s. Read more on Northwestern Now.
There’s also the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research which highlights that immigrants are less likely to be incarcerated compared to U.S.-born men. The evidence is clear: these negative stereotypes are unfounded.
Broad generalizations that depict immigrants as criminals are dangerous. They create prejudice, which is why it’s important to push back with truth and understanding.
Economic and Social Contributions
See how immigrants contribute economically and culturally
Immigrants have powerful stories that can open our eyes to their real experiences. Here are just a few:
Luisana Silva’s Journey from Venezuela
Luisana fled Venezuela because of political turmoil. She found a job in the U.S., supported her family, and helped boost the economy. Immigrants like Luisana are working hard and contributing to the community. See more
Jose Mirabal’s Determination
Jose tried twice to reach the U.S. He lost a foot in the first attempt, but his determination never faltered. This shows the strength and resilience immigrants have to find safety and opportunity. See more.
Stories from the U.S.-Mexico Border
This photo essay highlights immigrants’ challenges but also their hope for a better future. They have dreams like anyone else. See more.
“Risking Their Lives To Cross US Border” Documentary
Firsthand accounts from migrants risking everything. These stories show the real courage behind crossing the border and seeking a better life. (See more).
“The Other Side of Immigration” Documentary
Why do Mexican immigrants leave home to seek a new life? This documentary explores their contributions to American society. (See more)
These stories remind us that the people crossing the border are real individuals with hopes, dreams, and contributions to make.
Joseph Smith made it clear: the work of God is unstoppable. Immigrants are part of that work. We need to remember that we’re called to gather Israel, and many of those who come across the border are part of the House of Israel (See more).
Doctrine and Covenants 133:26-33 tells us that the north countries will remember the Lord, and their enemies will become a prey unto them. This means we should be allies to those being gathered, not their adversaries. We shouldn’t buy into divisive lies that pit us against immigrants. We must listen to our prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, who tells us: “I call upon you to help gather scattered Israel and to prepare the world for the Second Coming of the Lord.” See his General Conference talk.