Be-Think [Please visit BeThink.org]

Immigration In America. The Past; Grass Is Always Greener

copyright © 2007 Betsy L. Angert. BeThink.org

During this Thanksgiving Holy Day observance, we, the citizens of this nation say grace for all that G-d, and country, have given us. We celebrate the harvest. Our countrymen venerate the Native Americans that kindly shard their food and grain-filled lands with our European ancestors. We revel in what we reap. With thanks to our ancestors, the mavericks of the past, we, the children of immigrants, grew gloriously. Yet, while white Americans, descendants of the foreign born, rejoice, the darker complected grieve.

Give Thanks for Genocide. Thanksgiving, National Day of Mourning ©

The day is done, bellies are bloated, and now, rather than pretend to give thanks, we can reflect. Might we mourn our motives, the message, and the myths of Thanksgiving Day?

We are not vanishing. We are not conquered. We are as strong as ever."
~ United American Indians of New England.

As a child, I felt as my Mom did in her earliest years, "What are we giving thanks for on this holiday, hurting a loving native nation?" In the first grade, she was sent to the principal's office for questioning the "accepted" truth of Thanksgiving. She understood the tales taught to schoolchildren; however, my Mom contrasted these with what she knew of the Indian people. In my youngest years, I could or would not tolerate "Cowboy and Indian" games or the genre in films. I saw the slaughter of a loving people and wondered, as I do now, "Why do we allow this to happen?" Why would we celebrate such carnage?

America. Freedom Of Speech, English Only ©

Photograph By Jim Young I am dumbfounded or at least, wish I were. America has once again proved itself xenophobic! I awoke to the news, “Senate Votes to Set English as National Language.” Apparently, on Thursday, May 18, 2006, the Senate agreed to declare English this nation’s official language. The debate, prior to the formal poll was passionate. The word “racism” was tossed about. Nevertheless, the bigoted belied what they know to be correct and voted overwhelmingly to impose English upon all that enter this land. The final vote was 63 in favor, 34 against.

However, 'moments later,' the voice of reason filled the room, Senate members altered their stance slightly. They again voted, and this time passed a less powerful amendment. English would be titled the “unifying language.” I ask how a divisive dictum can unify rather than divide. Sadly, I am certain I will not receive an answer that I can comprehend. According to Democratic Senator Harry Reid “Although the intent may not be there, I really believe this amendment is racist. I believe it is directed at people who speak Spanish.” Mr. Reid, I trust that is true. America has become focused on Mexican immigrants. This nation wants the “Brown” out!

Immigration. Why Wail For A Wall or Agitate About Amnesty? ©

Al Podgorski, Photographer. Sun-Times On Monday, May 01, 2006, another May Day will come and go. However, for those in the United States this international holiday that honors laborers will be different. This one will live in the memories of Americans forever. In this country, citizens, and non, will speak out on the issue of immigration. For, it is the newest immigrants that makeup a large portion of our labor force. These persons are planning not to go to work today; nor will their supporters. They and their allies will stand up for themselves, their beliefs, and their desire for freedom.

Other will also venture out. They will take to the streets, the blogs, the bars, and airwaves. They will wail for walls. Some will agitate over the issue of amnesty. Whether they themselves are residing in this country legally or not, people will demonstrate. They will express their opinions loudly and openly.

The undocumented workers here in the USA are not loved; they are loathed by a vast majority of the populace. Numerous liberals, those that usually support the downtrodden have turned their backs on this population. They see them as law-breakers, union busters, and less than those born in this country.