What made the US great

Dear editor:

The United States was first visited by folks from the “Old World” who were seeking a new life 401 years ago, in 1620. They were fed up with what they had in Europe and believed that America would be a “Land of Economic Opportunity.” They also wanted religious freedom and were leaving a homeland in which there was famine, crop failures, excessive taxation, and job shortages.

Once here in their new country, they suddenly found that they had unlimited freedom for “upward mobility.” It was an increase in status both socially and economically. There were no forced social classes upon them and no forced labor. They were able to own property, form a government friendly to the inhabitants, and improve themselves as they wished. They were able to work at any job they chose and succeed in it.

Suddenly, they were allowed to dream and accomplish their visions for their own families. The spirit was created that America was indeed a Land of Opportunity. A new name, the United States of America, was coined and there were new laws created for the sole purpose of protecting the citizens from an unruly and overreaching government; and, those laws specifically gave the immigrants rights and protections never before provided for the “common folks.”

As more and more immigrants arrived, those who were already here attempted to establish pecking order over the newcomers and shun them. The Irish people were shunned as were the Catholics. Then the Italians were not wanted. Then the Chinese were shunned. The list was endless because those who were already here wanted the spoils for themselves — forgetting that it was a vast land with many natural resources.

Today, with a population of 330 million people, we are still a vast land with many natural resources and we are still a land of economic and social opportunity. Funny thing about it is that we still shun and reject newcomers as if somehow this trait was planted in our genes by our forefathers who did not want to share the riches of this great land.

Today, folks are fleeing their old homes (countries) to avoid political unrest, lack of work, economic hardship, dishonest leaders, and cartels who thrive on drugs, rape, and human trafficking. They seek amnesty in a land still rich with economic opportunities, religious freedom, and safety for their families. Yet, they are shunned.

Every person (except the American Indian) in the United States today is either an immigrant or the descendant of an immigrant. We are a melting pot of diversity bringing different cultures and heritage to be shared with others. We have all come to the United States for the same reason: freedom.

The pursuit of Life, Liberty, and Happiness is the American Way. Sadly, we might be losing it.

John Grillo Hot Springs