A record-breaking 1,285,000 immigrants moved to America this year. It’s easy to see why. Jobs are plentiful, and our Constitution gives them the freedom to seek their fortunes, express their ideas and practice their religions.
Still, many immigrants have a hard time, especially in big cities. They often work dangerous jobs, live in cramped housing and suffer from poor nutrition.
Reformers like Jane Addams are opening neighborhood centers to help immigrants adjust.
But some of us are less welcoming. Deep down, we fear immigrants will take our jobs and, with their strange languages and customs, make America less “American.”
Others ask: Have we forgotten? From Plymouth Rock to Ellis Island, we have always been a nation of immigrants.