Newsletter February 2012 – “Linfinity” and Beyond
February 23rd, 2012 by Eric J. Ramos
IN THIS ISSUE
The E-Verify Program to See An Increase in Funding
The Fairness For High-Skilled Immigrants Act
Alabama’s Anti-Immigration Law is Proving Costly
The Faces of US Immigrants: Natalie Portman, An Actress and Ivy-League Swan
Recipes From The Melting Pot: Vanilla Creme Brulee, A Very French Dessert
Quote of the Month
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“Linfinity” and Beyond
American Exceptionalism is due in large part to the fact that the United States is truly a Melting Pot of different cultures, races and ethnic groups coming together and creating the very essence of the American Dream. This is truly a country built on the shoulders of people that immigrated before us. But groups are emerging that are asking for very restrictive immigration laws, laws that would undermine the very essence of what the United States of America was built on. The problem is that there are members of Congress who listen to these groups and in fact, share their ideas.
In a recent article by David Leopold, the past president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association, he writes that groups such as NumbersUSA, are calling for a “time-out” on all immigration. Other restrictionist groups like the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) share the same beliefs. It is important to note that FAIR has been designated a hate group by the Southern Poverty Law Center. He makes the point that if it was up to these groups, America’s “gates [would be] closed to the best and brightest — scientists, entrepreneurs, artists and, yes, the athletes.” He further states that the U.S.-born New York Knicks basketball superstar, Jeremy Lin, would not be playing for the team because if restrictive immigration laws were on the books, his Taiwanese parents would have never been allowed to come to America.
Immigration reform is an important topic and don’t get me wrong, we do need legislation that tackles the topic but in a just, ethical and humane manner. As Mr. Leopold further stated: “Lin, an American-born son of Taiwanese immigrants, is one more shining example of the value of immigration. His contribution is a gift, a blessing for all Americans to cherish and enjoy.” What’s at stake here goes beyond Jeremy Lin. It goes to the very root of America’s future. If we are to compete economically in today’s world, we cannot close the doors to people wishing to come to this country from the rest of the world.
