Grantee Partner
Cutting-edge, timely research on immigration policy
The U.S. Immigration Policy Center (USIPC) at the University of California San Diego is conducting cutting-edge research to inform the most significant issues in our immigration debate today. The center is led by Professor Tom K. Wong, whose research focuses on the politics of immigration, citizenship, and migrant “illegality.” Professor Wong is uniquely skilled at conducting timely research that provides data to inform complex policy issues. He works closely with policymakers and advocates to ensure that his research addresses stakeholders’ data needs.
The USIPC has produced research showing that sanctuary localities are safer than comparable non-sanctuary localities; the economic and educational benefits of DACA, which has been used in numerous court cases defending DACA; and whether harsh border policies actually deter asylum-seekers, which has been used to help end family separations and uphold the Flores Settlement agreement (which prevents the indefinite detention of children).
The center’s research has played a major role in debunking myths about immigration and has been cited by many media outlets to fact check false claims. Advocates have used Professor Wong’s research in their communications efforts, as well as to educate federal policymakers.
Unbound Philanthropy first supported Professor Wong’s research on DACA in 2013, and has provide core support since 2017. Unbound Philanthropy does not commonly fund research, but where we do, it’s for timely research that can address the most pressing and complex immigration policy issues of today.This center’s research advances all of our strategy areas.
Dr. Tom Wong's data analytical work has had a powerful impact on Four Freedom Fund grantees’ non-partisan voter outreach campaigns. As a result of Dr. Wong’s assistance, voter engagement organizations are able to target infrequent Latinx and AAPI voters, who are rarely engaged by other campaigns, significantly improving voter turnout.
Anita Khashu, Director, Four Freedoms Fund