We ve welcomed many to the United States, though some immigrants aren t treated so well simply because of their skin color, religion, ethnicity or customs. In the past, we ve harbored prejudices against new groups, including arriving Germans, Irish, Southern Europeans and Eastern Europeans. Perhaps the Chinese fared the worst, banned from becoming permanent residents through an 1882 law that wasn t repealed until 1943. This Independence Day, let s reflect on our newer immigrants from Asia, Africa and Latin America. They arrive on our shores just as our European ancestors did, seeking the American Dream of freedom and prosperity.
Bigotry confronts our newest immigrants.
We need to remember to look beyond the skin colors, accents, traditions, clothes and mannerisms to remember that they re just like our forbears who landed in America. You never know, your new neighbor might just be the next Alexander Hamilton or Alexander Graham Bell. The air-bridged harbor that twin cities frame. Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore. Ask an expert or become an expert .