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I'm a radical pro-immigration advocate. I'm not saying we…

“I'm a radical pro-immigration advocate. I'm not saying we just look at the Muslim world or we just look at China, we just look at India as a source of our talent. But, one thing we know... first or second generation or new immigrants or children of immigrants have started about 40% of the Fortune…” quote by Thomas Friedman
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“I'm a radical pro-immigration advocate. I'm not saying we just look at the Muslim world or we just look at China, we just look at India as a source of our talent. But, one thing we know... first or second generation or new immigrants or children of immigrants have started about 40% of the Fortune 500 companies. For me it's always been a really very important issue that I want America to be open to the most energetic and talented people from around the world.”

Thomas Friedman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Advocates for open immigration, highlighting immigrant contributions to top companies and emphasizing talent over geography.

In simple terms: Immigrants drive economic success; openness brings talent.

Key Takeaway

Support policies that attract global talent.

Themes

immigration economy talent diversity

Mood

optimistic urgent

Type

policy advocacy

When to use this quote

  • business strategy
  • policy debate
  • education recruitment
  • startup ecosystems

Key Concepts

human capital innovation global competition

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we balance security with openness?
  • What policies best attract high‑skill migrants?
A Different Perspective

Immigration restrictions can spark political backlash and social tension.

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