Today, there is an unparalleled and unprecedented discussion going on about human migration in the world. Although, it is worth noting that the subject of human migration has never been easy to discuss amicably, harmoniously, politely, or cordially because of its deep rooted social, religious, and political implications.
We have a choice, "To Be or Not to Be"; "to Be a Window to the World, to Build Bridges, to be Inclusionary or To Be Exclusionary". "To Be United or To Be Divided".
By examining history, and following its guidance, it becomes evident that the majority of Americans choose to be united as a nation of determined, confident, brave people. There is no need to traverse the well-worn paths of Right and Left ideologies (or any other sub-title ideology) to understand this truth. Nor should we, the American people, allow any politician, any foreign power, or any corporation divide us; instead, like our country’s forefathers, we must collectively choose the path of Prosperity, Peace, and Justice for All.
There have been numerous quotes, views, ideologies, expressions about immigration, but the one most befitting the ideals of Americans past and present, was said by a late former President of the United States: “Every American who has ever lived, with the exception of one group, was either an immigrant himself or a descendant of immigrants,” wrote a young senator in 1958. The senator’s name was John F. Kennedy, himself the grandchild of Irish immigrants.
Immigrants make up the great country we call the United States of America. According to US immigration statistics, there are about forty three million foreign nationals- and they make up more than 13% of the US population. Whether they are doctors, students, authors, builders, farmers, servers, or actors, they all serve an important purpose in elucidating how we live with, and cherish, the individual and collective freedoms we are proud to uphold in America– land of the free, home of the brave, and open to anyone from anywhere in the world who shares the values of humanity, liberty, and justice for all.
Since the country’s founding, immigration has been one of its most contentious and controversial issues. In addition, many who have come to the U.S. came against their wills, as slaves, and many others who wished to enter the United States were barred for reasons ranging from foreign-policy issues, to stereotypes, to the prevalent political atmosphere of the time. As a result, the most common origins of American immigrants have shifted over the years, and some groups are better represented than others.
As mentioned above, our objective is to stay United, Build Bridges, and assist new and existing immigrants population in assimilating and embracing the American culture and traditions they helped create through the generations - rather than advocate in favor of one ideology or group over another. No matter where an immigrant comes from, the challenges of moving do not end on the day he or she enters the United States. Various goals need to be fulfilled - livelihoods must be made, families need to be supported, academic achievements need accomplishing, and important social bonds between communities require forging. And, if the statistics are any indication, immigrants have been realizing such goals with flying colors. As per the Fiscal Policy Institute, immigrants and their US born descendants have a share of over $5,042,277,015,987.00 (i.e. over five trillion dollars) in U.S economic output. Moreover, it is vital to note that, of the 500 Fortune companies, 90 were founded by immigrant; some of these firms include Google, eBay, Yahoo, Hotmail, and Qualcomm – along with many more. And it’s not just the billion-dollar epic companies that are making an outsized contribution to U.S. competitiveness, but a multitude of small businesses and entrepreneurships have immigrant founders too.
We have developed a robust platform to promote; Progress, Prosperity, Unity, and Justice among all Americans and beyond our national borders. Today – and in the future - our platform will boost the exchange of ideas in many sectors of our lives, including, Education,Economics, Health, Societal Dialogue, Politics, National Security, Tourism – the scope of influence for this platform is unlimited! Our members are from every corner of America and from around the world. We are implementing a meticulous policy to promote the aspirations of our Founding Fathers and The Constitution.
And so, my fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you -- ask what you can do for your country.
Our most basic common link is that we all inhabit this planet. We all breathe the same air. We all cherish our children's future. And we are all mortal.
Change is the law of life. And those who look only to the past or present are certain to miss the future.
We are tied to the ocean. And when we go back to the sea, whether it is to sail or to watch - we are going back from whence we came.
Forgive your enemies, but never forget their names.
Mankind must put an end to war before war puts an end to mankind.
Those who make peaceful revolution impossible will make violent revolution inevitable.
Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.