We're All Immigrants
To The Editor:

The census in 1880 reported that 20 percent of Americans were recent immigrants most of whom spoke no English. Every immigrant wave to come ashore in the U.S. has been met with suspicion and hostility.

Factually everyone in the U.S. is an immigrant. Those who have a foothold and each generation thereafter seem to oppose new immigrants. The link to their own history is distorted and embellished. The harsh reality that confronts immigrants the world over is dismissed when benefits the U.S. guarantees are considered. The opponents view immigrants as worthless, interested only in ripping off the taxpayers.

Lawbreakers should face the full extent of the law. When laws are not enforced, the gates are opened to all. Employers who take advantage of undocumented employees hardly confront penalties. The American consumer who is enraged by increased prices supports unfair labor practices and thereby advocates illegal immigration. Regardless of what opponents believe, there are jobs that Americans refuse to take.

Often heard from opponents are the alleged costs flowing from state and federal treasuries to provide for illegal immigrants. It would be interesting if a non-partisan committee were formed to investigate the matter. The truth lies within the facts.

Supporters claim that the U.S. benefits financially from illegal immigration. When Social Security numbers are fabricated, the U.S. Treasury receives funds that will never be paid out. Our food costs are subsidized off the backs of illegal immigrants who are not paid mandated minimum wages. Low wage earners revitalize rundown neighborhoods.

Diversity has rewards that defy monetary considerations. The U.S. remains a magnet to the world. Perhaps any proper investigation into the cost/benefit analysis of immigration should value the changes to our nation resulting from immigration.
Edward Horn
Baldwin, New York