Letters to the editor Dec. 22

Immigration policy

So, my slightly different viewpoint on this country’s current immigration mess (coming from what was a 4-year-old immigrant, whose family fled from the Russian occupation of Hungary, naturalized in 1982). 

If we can for a moment just remove our political-based view on this and simplify it down to this: Most immigrants just want a better and/or a new way of life. They don’t know or care who is president much less from what party. 

The world just simply saw this message from the U.S. five years ago: “Come one, come all. Our door is wide open. No need to apply, just come.” 

So they did, by the millions in those few short years. 

Fast forward to today: Our current message (from the same U.S.) is “Get out. If you don’t, we’ll send you back.”

And that is just wrong. 

The money, time and effort this country is spending on this could be much better served by creating what is similar to what Ellis Island was all about (look it up for you younger folks). An assimilation program where for 30 days you are housed, fed and educated about the country you wish to become a part of. Our language, our laws, our political systems, our customs our history. You learn how to be a self-sufficient person and live within your means. You pledge allegiance to your new home, friends and family. 

If that doesn’t work for you then we gently send you on your way.

— Roland Godan, Ronan