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Slicing American pie
Had it not been for immigration, the U.S. would not be here. It is a country of ambitious people who sought opportunity and freedom from oppression. For most, the image of immigration at the beginning of the 20th century is one of Ellis Island and steamships full of European passengers. Beginning in 1892 and until 1954, approximately 12 million immigrants entered the U.S. through the port of New York. Little Italy and Chinatown are testament to other cultures being woven into the American culture. The inhabitants of those areas and their neighbors most certainly had culture clashes that brought about tension. But over time, a balance was found. Why then, is immigration such a contentious issue now? The difference today, is the vastness of the influx of foreign born people. In 2005 alone, 1.1 million people became legal permanent residents in the U.S. In addition, at least half a million people come to the U.S. illegally every year, according to the Center for Immigration Studies. Compare that to the 200,000 per year through Ellis Island in the early 20th century. What makes the issue so debatable now? It is not that Americans believe that we should not allow immigration at all. Many workers come to make a better life for themselves with strong work ethics and an appreciation for the U.S. And for that American agriculture is grateful. You would be hard-pressed to find an American citizen who wouldn't want to give opportunity to those people. But where the immigration debate becomes cloudy, is dealing with incorporating immigrants into our society smoothly, without culture clash. Certainly, no American would expect for a foreign national to give up their heritage. But immigrants should not ask for Americans to give up theirs either. American citizens don't want anyone to take advantage of them. And with such huge numbers funneling into the U.S., it has placed added burden on the infrastructure of the country. It seems everyone wants a piece of the American pie, and Americans are afraid that there won't be enough to go around. U.S. citizens don't mind sharing, they just don't want to have to pay for the pie and have someone else get a big chunk of it for free. It's a balancing act that the U.S. hasn't yet found a way to manage. And, to date, there doesn't seem to be a plan to find that balance. For if there are too many immigrants, and no balance, the opportunity everyone seeks in America will be gone. Holly Martin can be reached by phone at 1-800-452-7171 ext. 1806 or e-mail at hmartin@hpj.com. Date: 7/12/06
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