Synthesizing the Research

Abstract

Abstract This chapter culls the central themes from these cases, reexamines the factors that drive positive and negative responses to the new immigration, and seeks to unpack the political dynamics by which they play out. It also highlights the metropolitan spatial dimension of these dynamics. The chapter then examines the implications for research and practice. On the practice side, it suggests some new federal policies that would speed immigrant integration, promote receptivity, and defuse tensions. It also features some “best practices” developed around the country, noting which ones work, why, and where. Finally, the chapter highlights the most important remaining research questions and explains how building on the case study method used here could help answer them.