Humanity and Immigration

Recently, as I'm sure most are aware, the United States has implemented strict immigration policies looking to combat the influx of people seeking asylum within its walls. The most recent policy is one where none of us can stand by silently as families are ripped apart.

The United States of America, once this used to mean hope, a new life, and a new start for anyone seeking a better life. The Statue of Liberty welcomed thousands of new Americans to their new home but now she stands silent and weeping for all those who will never get to live the American Dream.

I have said this a lot in my writing, but the American dream is really at its core the dream of all people, Freedom. We dream to be free, to live, laugh, love without fear of condemnation or violence. This is the freedom each and every single human being deserves to have and we over our history have tried to deny this freedom to one part of humanity or another.

I understand and hear arguments from both sides, I understand that there are already homeless and people needing help within America already and the other side wanting to shelter them. Ultimately, it really comes down to our humanity. Who we are as a people, we see each other as different parts of the whole of humankind when we, in fact, are so connected to each other on so many levels the basest of which is our DNA.

We are all one people and we need to stop seeing it as my people or your people we are all one. We can implement borders hiding behind our flags but what do they mean if not hope and not just hope for those within its walls but for all those in need of hope. If your friend, family member or lover was in danger wouldn't you do anything you can to help them?.

These immigrants come to your doors because for years you have advertised the American Dream. Come to America and you will have a chance at a better life, the promise of that dream beckons all who need that Hope. They do not need the red carpet rolled out nor do they need handouts all they want is a chance to fulfill the dream. I know from experience that new citizens can be some of the nicest and hardest working people that you will meet.

The western world was built by immigration and it continues to evolve thanks to new citizens bringing their culture to our shores. I know some fear the fanatical sides of humanity but the only way that we will change their hearts is to show them love. Be vigilant always to do less would be foolish but when you have more than you need to create a bigger table and not a bigger wall.

We are all one people, we have hopes, dreams and aspirations and their continued evolution within humanity will help to strengthen the bonds between us if we let it. At times like these, we need to reconnect to our humanity which literally means human unity and unify together and show the world that the western states are a refuge for tired, poor and huddled masses yearning to be free.

Nearly every single person in the western world is descended from an immigrant. Your grandparents or great-grandparents left their homes in search of a better life and they landed in America. Here they planted roots and watched their family trees begin to grow and take shape. This act of courage should be applauded and their sacrifices built the country you have today. This same dream, this courageous heart is found in all those of this generation who came to your shores looking for that promise, that dream. It's time we make good on that promise, don't you think? Or else that dream will forever remain just that, a dream.

"You either create a world for everyone or else you will end up in a world fit for no one."

Thank you.