"Illegal" IMMIGRANTS UNDERSTAND PATRIOTISM
by Leo E. Laurence; Member: SPJ Nat'l. Committee on Diversity
We can learn about American patriotism from immigrants, including those some improperly call "illegal."
I wrote the word "illegal" in quotation marks for a particular reason. While I wanted to catch your attention, I also strongly believe it is profesionally unethical, as a journalist, to brand anyone as "illegal" who has not been so judged by a court of law.
Our nation of laws holds firmly that a person is innocent until - and only until - proven guilty by a judge.
An article "Is Obama American Enough" by columnist Ruben Navarette, Jr. of the San Diego Union Tribune addresses the issue of patriotism as we celebrate the Fourth of July. Being a Navy veteran, I proudly fly my Stars 'n Stripes frequently. The Fourth of July is a special day for me.
After exploring the "silly controversies over flag pins" and other similar issues, like "when it was that his wife became proud of her country;" Navarrette says, "In some quarters, Obamam is being attacked for not being American enough . . .".
"The irony is that, as the son of someone who immigrated here fromn another country, Obama probably understands better than many of his fellow, native-born citizens what it means to be an American.
"Immigrants (all of them), no matter where they came from, have a lot to teach the rest of us about seeking opportunity, working hard, pursuing dreams, treasuring liberty and remaining optimistic even when you fail," Navarette wrote.
"If you really want to understand patriotism, don't talk to those of us who were born here through no effort of our own.
"Talk to someone who came here from Iran or Eastern Europe, or Cuba and who doesn't have the luxury of taking freedom for granted.
"Talk to somefrom from Vietnam or Indian or Mexico (yes, Mexicans) who see only opportuntities where many of us see obstacles," Navarrette wrote in his revealing column.
In other words, to understand American patriotism on the Fourth of July, you might talk to those who many would improperly call "illegal immigrants."
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For comment, contact Leo E. Laurence at leopowerhere@msn.com