Becoming a Citizen

This insightful book examines how the U.S. and Canada differ in their approaches to immigrant citizenship, highlighting the importance of state support and multicultural policies.

In Becoming a Citizen, the author provides a nuanced comparative analysis of the pathways to citizenship in the United States and Canada. Through in-depth interviews with Portuguese immigrants and Vietnamese refugees in both Boston and Toronto, the book reveals how state support for settlement and an official policy of multiculturalism in Canada significantly enhance citizenship acquisition and political participation among newcomers. This exploration raises essential questions about how diverse societies can foster civic cohesion and a sense of community among varied ethnic and racial groups.

The author, Irene Bloemraad, challenges the conventional wisdom that attributes differences in naturalization rates and political involvement solely to the characteristics of immigrants themselves. Instead, she posits that the political incorporation of foreigners is deeply influenced by the reception and support they receive from the host country. By examining the contrasting experiences of immigrants in Canada and the United States, Becoming a Citizen highlights the critical role of government policies in shaping the integration process.

Furthermore, the findings have broader implications for other immigrant-receiving nations, including Australia and various European countries. The book serves as a thought-provoking resource for policymakers and scholars interested in understanding how to create more inclusive and participatory societies for all residents, regardless of their background.