Fueling Democracy, Defining Greatness
Fueling Democracy, Defining Greatness
How Immigrants Helped Shape A Great Nation
From the earliest days of our country, people around the world have yearned to live in the land of the free and the home of the brave. America was a magnet for adventurers, as well as ordinary people who had no other way to improve their lives in their native country other than to leave it. They went to great lengths to find a way to our shores, families often arriving piecemeal with little more than hope and a dream that they could make it in the land of opportunity.
The welcome mat was not always out for everyone, but these hardy immigrants came anyway for the chance to establish their futures in a democratic land. The melting pot was born out of dual needs – theirs for a better world, and ours for a robust population that would expand the workforce and spur our development.
Every nationality that made the hard trek to democracy contributed to making America great in ways large and small. Compared to the rest of the planet, America was great from the start and has remained great for hundreds of years. While whiny agitators sing a different tune, immigrants have always played and continue to play a vital role in shaping the fabric of American society with unique perspectives, cultural diversity and economic vitality.
Whether they are organizing grassroots movements or advocating for social justice, immigrants have demonstrated a profound commitment to democratic ideals. When you vote in November, remember to uphold these ideals that formed the foundation of our always great America.
Post submitted by Maggie Smith, a volunteer with The Union.
Note: The views and opinions expressed by volunteer contributors are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the positions of The Union, a single-issue organization that welcomes all and is dedicated to protecting democracy.
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