Before Tonight’s Debate, I like to recall Reagan’s thoughts on Immigration and Lady Liberty
As tonight’s debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump unfolds, immigration will undoubtedly take center stage. It’s important to remember that for years, immigration has been a bipartisan issue. Both Republicans and Democrats have recognized the importance of immigrants in our country’s history and future.
From building companies and filling vital jobs to enriching the fabric of American culture, immigrants continue to contribute to the nation’s success. Ronald Reagan, one of the most revered Republican leaders, offered a compelling view on immigration in his final speech as President:
Quoting from a letter he received, “You can go to live in France, but you cannot become a Frenchman. You can go to live in Germany or Turkey or Japan, but you cannot become a German, a Turk, or a Japanese. But anyone, from any corner of the Earth, can come to live in America and become an American.’’
Reagan understood that the vitality and diversity of each generation of immigrants is what guarantees America’s triumph. As he said:
“Thanks to each wave of new arrivals to this land of opportunity, we’re a nation forever young, forever bursting with energy and new ideas, and always on the cutting edge… If we ever closed the door to new Americans, our leadership in the world would soon be lost.”
As we listen to tonight’s debate, let’s remember that America’s strength lies in its openness and the contributions of immigrants from all over the world. It is a lesson that has been understood by leaders across the political spectrum, and one that should guide us moving forward.
On a person note, last week I was returning from a cruise that ended in New York City. I woke before dawn to see Lady Liberty lit up in the early and she almost took my breath away. The pictures do not do it justice.
I can only imagine what immigrants over a hundred years ago must have felt when they saw her up close as well.
Let me know what you think of tonight’s debate.
Joseph Kopser
Co-Founder of USTomorrow
