Sunday, October 4, 2015
WEEK FOUR BLOG ENTRY
How does it change a country to have so many immigrants? Is the U.S. different for having been born of immigrants and then peopled by Irish in the 1840s, Germans in the 1880s, Chinese and Japanese in the 1890s, Italians in the early 1900s, and so on? How is a nation different after so much immigration?
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This topic may be controversial for many of us. As we see today immigration has become a huge topic in America. This may bring politics into place, but many of us can say it doesn’t because we may have family members, friends, and even spouses who may be immigrants. Immigrants have become a huge part of the United States. As we know California is state that is surrounded by agriculture, which requires hard workers to help do the job. These jobs require hard labor, work in the hot sun, and work long hours daily. Immigration has changed this country by providing help. I believe that no one can be capable of doing the hard labor they are doing today. They come to have a better future for their families and themselves. They want to make a difference in this country. Although, many individuals say that this affects our country? Well to me it doesn’t. It doesn’t matter where they come from, they are coming for a better life, come to work, and get an education. This immigration issue raises many questions for many individuals. As a tax payer people want to know where their money goes, how is it used, are we getting any benefit from it? Well today America does spend millions of dollars in immigration. How politicians want to build higher border walls, how they want to keep them in immigration for couple days until they figure out their statuses, providing food, shelter, and etc. Many Americans are becoming angry, because of this. Many of these questions can’t be answered until politicians and the president come to a decision. After so much immigration, this country is different, because the United States is known to be “land of the free.” We stand for equal rights and we as Americans should be thankful to them, because they may do labor that we may not want to do.
ReplyDeleteHey Claudia, i do believe that this state is known for its agricultural industry therefore providing many jobs for everybody. However many americans don't choose to do these tough jobs therefore those who immigrate here and actually do it provide great help.
DeleteHi Claudia!
DeleteI agree with you that we need workers for agriculture especially here in California. Very well done! I agree with most of what you discussed in your blog entry!
How do you feel about the "anchor baby" phenomenon? I recently found that there are many different immigrants that come to the U.S. with intentions to have their babies here in order to gain joint citizenship.
DeleteHi Claudia, I too believe that immigration has changed this country because they are providing help to America.
DeleteImmigration is an extremely hot topic in politics lately. I do believe that immigration can change a country. For some people the change may be positive, yet for some the change may be negative. I do believe that the immigrants have improved our country to an extent, but there are also drawbacks from immigration. I have several friends that have family members who are here illegally, but most of my friends were born here. Many immigrants come across the border for a better life, and I agree with those individuals that come to the United States, learn English, and work to make a better life for themselves and their family. I do not agree with the people that come across the border and expect us to learn their native language. I don’t believe that I should learn another language to associate with people that came to a new country to start a new life. The amount of immigrants coming across to California is growing exponentially and politicians are trying to figure out ways to handle the immigration issue. I don’t think we should get rid of all the immigrants that came across and are here living a successful life with their family. People come to the U.S. for freedom and the opportunity to make something of themselves. So when immigrants come to the United States why don’t they try to start a new life? For example, starting a new life would consist of learning the language of the country you are going to. Several schools, businesses, etc. accommodate the language barrier and I don’t understand why immigrants come to the U.S. if they are only going to bring everything that they left behind with them. I do believe every person should be treated as a human being, but I do believe changes need to be made. There should be some other laws in order for immigrants to come across and live here as well as laws for education. I do not receive any help for my education and I believe that in certain cases you need to be a certain color or ethnicity in order to receive help. I do believe things should be much more equal for everyone. We shouldn’t punish or blame the immigrants for all of our economic and social issues. The issues we have as a country are a result of several other things that are usually much bigger than one person.
ReplyDeleteAshlynne,
DeleteI just wanted to comment something from your perspective. I see where you're coming from. I am for many things you say, but many I'm not. About them? Have you actually ever encountered immigrants or those who are from a Hispanic culture to expect for you to learn their native language? You can choose who to associate with? No one forces us to interact with anyone. You stated, "I don’t think we should get rid of all the immigrants that came across and are here living a successful life with their family." So by this are you saying that we should get rid of all unsuccessful immigrants? You also stated "So when immigrants come to the United States why don’t they try to start a new life?" What do you mean by starting a new life?" Of course they (Hispanics) are going to bring everything they come with. They should. Why? Because they should be proud of where they come from. Coming to a new country is a big step, because they're risking their life's everyday. What makes America so great is that its all about 'freedom'. Everything is a choice.
Sorry, if i sound mean. I'm not trying to sound mean. Its just the way i see it you know. Hope we're okay (:
This topic about immigration has been a hot ongoing topic for many years now. Some Americans feel like they are being impacted negatively by it, for example Donald Trump who had a lot to say about Mexicans and other hispanics, and while others seem unbothered by it. In my opinion i do feel like immigration has changed the U.S. but in a positive way. It has impacted the U.S. politically, socially and economically. Many people who do immigrate to this country come here for good reasons. They come here to work, build from the ground up, to pursue a better education and to create better futures for themselves and their little ones. Many people tend to have negative stereotypes about immigrants, how they come here to be lazy or how they are here to steal peoples job. When in reality they come here and work those tough agricultural jobs working 10-12 long hours a day in the sun picking grapes. This state has a potent agricultural industry that supplies suffice jobs for everybody. However, many don't choose to do these harvesting jobs therefore how is it considered stealing job opportunities from others? I know many families and friends that have immigrated to these country to pursue the American Dream.Many need to understand that many of those who migrate aren't here to live of welfare and abuse to government, they are here for better opportunities and wish to be equally treated. I don't believe they should be drawn out of this country and such if they impact this country in a positive way. Not all immigrants are responsible for the problems in this country.
ReplyDeleteHi Yesenia!
DeleteYes, immigration has somewhat changed the United States in a positive way. The American Dream is pursued by many and I applaud immigrants who com here and live that dream! Very well done!
Hi Yesenia, I also believe immigrants are here for the better and that there are a select few that ruin it for everyone and create a bad name for immigrant everywhere. I know you mentioned Donald Trump, do you believe that immigration should be as big as a hot topic as it is this presidential election?
DeleteI completely agree with you Yesenia. Watching my grandparents and my mother work in the fields and not hearing them complain once has left a very huge impact on me. yes there are a few people that come and take advantage of the system but the wrong doings of a few can not stereotype a race as a whole. I am very proud to be born in the United States and to be able to call myself an American but what my parents and grandparents had to go through to put myself and the rest of my family in our current position is something that I will be forever proud of.
DeleteHey Nick, i do believe some make the rest look bad however most of them are here to pursue a better life and opportunities. I believe that this topic will forever be controversial and will be and continue to be brought up in debates, some will speak negatively about it while others positively therefore i think this topic is very important.
DeleteHey Bernie, thank you i agree with you. I am also a very proud daughter who admire my parents for doing everything they have done for me, for supplying me with a home and education. Im proud of all those immigrants who come to this country to pursue a better life.
DeleteSome one somewhere will always use controversial topics like immigration to help them in things like politics,
DeleteYesenia,
DeleteYes, i totally agree with you on how many come here to work those long hours in the hot sun. Many Americans don't understand the tough of a job it is. I have family members working in the field because of the lack of degree, diploma, and of course migration issues. And also i do agree with the stereotyping the rest because of just one person.
When it comes to immigration I can only speak on behalf of my perspective of the United States and no other countries. I fall on both sides of the debate that considers immigration good and bad. Ultimately, I believe it changes a country for the good rather than the bad to have immigrants. Immigrants possess so many different backgrounds and practices unknown to Americans, which helps the U.S. to open its eyes and see that we aren’t the only country on this planet. Immigrants also bring in hard working people who are willing to work and earn the freedom that we all take for granted. As with everything, with the good comes the bad. The small percentages of immigrants who come here solely to destroy the freedoms that we enjoy are the immigrants who give all immigrants a bad reputation. Because the U.S. has so many different immigrants from different countries, I believe that the U.S. is different from most other places in the world. The mass immigrations over the years from different civilizations created a melting pot of different races. Although we may not all get along, immigrants bring different cultures, religions, music, foods, and so much more, that Americans all enjoy to this day. The melting pot of different races of people who came here for a new start changed our nation tremendously. When most of us go out to eat or out for a drink, we don’t usually have or go to a place that is native to America, we usually go to places with weird names that are from different parts of the world. We are able to choose from a big variety of everything in our lives because of the different immigrants who came here at one point in history.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree with the point you made about immigrants making the U.S. a more diverse and interesting place. I also agree that the majority of immigrants come to the U.S. for a chance to work and to get ahead in life.
Deletei do agree with you about the immigrants bringing their cultures with them gives our country the opportunity to learn about other cultures which is really cool. I am guilty of going to all different kinds of places to eat because i love different kind of food.
DeleteI believe that you've never really visited a new country until you've tried their food and traditions.
DeleteHi Nick
DeleteI’m glad that you mentioned the melting pot, because this is what the U.S is, and because we have a melting pot of all ethnicities; we can explore other countries in our own country.
I am really glad that you mentioned the "melting pot" too. Each one of us is a descendant of an immigrant and one of our family members has had to deal with being a first generation worker in the United States. They make us who we are and most citizens have families that are a mixture of several different ethnicities.
DeleteHi Veronica and Savannah, we are all indeed made up of different races and no one's 100 percent American anymore. My mom's from Germany and my dad is from Oklahoma, I may be "white" but I have a few different background. I believe we're all equal no matter where we come from.
DeleteEvery country has immigrants that add more culture, food, and different new interesting things to their second home. This has many advantages and disadvantages in my opinion. The advantages range from having a lot of diversity and different new cool cultural food, music, festivities, and art. This brings a lot of exciting new culture for the people in the country to explore and learn more about. Other advantages include those that the immigrants to benefit from such as stable jobs, better education, better living conditions, and more options for an enjoyable life such as entertainment and vacation spots. In addition, the specific country may benefit from the immigrants if they are hard workers and willing to work hard in the agriculture fields or even try to find the cure of cancer. Disadvantages include overpopulation, more crime, and citizenship. Those disadvantages make it hard for the country to restrict immigration only to a few to avoid overpopulation and/or the spread of diseases. The United States is different for having born of immigrants and then peopled by different people from different countries because it welcomed those immigrants and some of them helped the United States of America become the nation it is today. Those different people from Irish, China, Germany, and others contribute so much to our history as a nation and shape us as a country. A nation is different after so much immigration because of the different languages, culture, food, and other cultural benefits that the immigrants bring to it. Immigration will always be around the world and it will continue to benefit many people in different ways.
ReplyDeleteHi Jessica, I am on both sides of the fence as well. Overall, do you believe immigration hurts this country or helps it?
DeleteThose are some good advantages you pointed out. A few more that came to mind while I was reading was the understanding and open towards other cultures. People understanding and accepting each other keeps us at peace with one another. When reading through the disadvantages I did not agree that just because there are more immigrants necessarily mean that there is more crime. Just my opinion.
DeleteHi Jessica, I really liked reading your blog post. You make great points with the advantages and disadvantages. My favorite advantage being all the different cultures and food.
DeleteHi Jessica, these are some great points you pointed out. I didn't think about immigration this way. It is true, people immigrating from one country to another will bring different customs, ideas, cultures, languages, and foods. I find it very interesting to learn about others cultures and customs.
DeleteHi Nick!
DeleteOverall, I would say that immigration helps this country by allowing some immigrants to take over jobs that someone like you and I would not want to do. Further, this country provides several people from different countries to pursue the American Dream. On the other hand, this leads to a bigger population in this country which could lead to the issue of overpopulation.
A country changes when there are immigrants because first of all the population grows, health care needs increase, more job openings are necessary, and more households need to be available for families or individuals. As we all know our country progresses as well because many of the immigrants work in the fields. This helps our country because the more crops that are produced the more fruits and vegetables we have in our market. Some of my favorite fruits are grapes, watermelon, strawberries, and peaches. My favorite vegetables that grow are lettuce, cucumber, and potatoes. All these fruits and vegetables grow effectively thanks to out field workers. As I mentioned many of the field workers are immigrants therefore we should be thankful they do this job or we wouldn’t have healthy and great produce. A nation grows but there are also many issues that contribute to a nation. Deportation, necessity of papers to work at certain jobs, and discrimination are all big issues with immigration. The biggest factor is separating families when individuals get deported. This will just give the nation a bigger problem economic wise. Welfare comes into play here because as more people get welfare the economy declines and is affected. Some jobs require papers and immigrants do not get the same opportunity to work at certain jobs such as factories, companies, or even at some restaurants. There are many immigrants that get discriminated because of their language, color, or race. Everyone should have the same opportunity and equality because we should all be treated fairly in the world.
ReplyDeleteHi Carla, I really enjoyed reading your blog post. I agree that everyone deserves the right to be treated fairly. Its really sad how many immigrants get discriminated against because of their language, color, or race. Everyone deserves an equal chance.
DeleteHi Crystal, thanks for your comment. Yes we see discrimination happening everywhere such as in schools, streets, jobs, or stores. I am sure you have experienced someone being discriminated for these reasons and much more.
DeleteHello Carla,
DeleteI really enjoyed reading your blog. I agree that agricultural resources have increased with the help of immigrants. It amazes me how some people have no idea what immigrants have to go through in order to survive financially. There are people that need to appreciate their hard work and loyalty to this country. I also agree that everyone should be treated equally. We need to be kind to one another in order for this country to be better.
I agree about some things you wrote about how there are issues with having papers in order to get to work in certain jobs which is why most immigrants work in the field. They do not have the necessary things to work certain places. My grandparents worked in the field for a long time and there are several people who are not immigrants struggling in this country. We have veterans who need extra help too but it just hard to please everyone because everyone is different and have different needs.
DeleteThis topic seems to be producing good writing and thinking! Keep it up!
ReplyDeleteAlso, don't worry if your ideas have already been stated. As the week goes on, it is not necessary to have totally original ideas in every post...just keep writing and thinking!
It is my personal belief that immigrants are an essential part of our country. I believe that immigrants come to this country from countries all over the world to work and make an honest living for their families whether they came here as well or are still in their homeland. You can not talk about immigrants and immigration these days without bringing up Donald Trump as well. Personally I am not a fan of his. Yes he does make some valid observations but at the end of the day I really don't think he has a real shot at becoming president, especially after his remarks over Mexican immigrants. Another joke of a candidate that is going to follow in his footsteps in the next election is going to be Kanye West but that is a whole other subject. Another positive aspect from immigrants is the fusion of different types of cultures in one community or neighborhood. Mixing of cultures helps people understand one another and be more respectful of each others culture. it is my personal belief that in the Middle East where countries are killing each other because of their own beliefs is because they have never tried to understand each other. Maybe this is because they've never had a chance to or maybe because they just don't want to. Immigrants mixing up with one another avoids that. Plus our country was founded on accepting immigrants, on the Statue of Liberty itself it states, "Give us your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free." Now I know that our country is in a financial crisis but it is not the immigrants fault as so many like to point out. It is the blatant overspending by our government on things that make no sense that i will not get into right now. If anything the immigrants are helping keep our economy going by working the jobs that others do not want to do and paying their taxes.
ReplyDeleteIt's great that Trump has brought the issue of immigration back into the media. But instead of him actually trying to solve the issue of illegal immigration by using a reasonable tactic, he just says he's going to build a bigger wall. What are we going to be doing with the broken up families in the U.S. Just forget about them? What about the children-now-adults that were born here illegally and identify as Americans? Deport them, too? Really?
DeleteI do agree we should not blame the immigrants for all of our problems. We have all created this and honestly most of our problems have to do with our government, but that's a whole other issue.
DeleteHello Bernie,
DeleteI must also say that whole Donald Trump and Kanyee West idea is absolutely absurd. Moreover, I was very intrigued by your statement relating to the mix of cultures, as I have also stated that in my blog. I really do appreciate the mix of cultures and the new customs resulting from that.
Immigration can be such a sensitive topic for many people. Some people view immigration in a positive light however, many other people see it negatively. I believe that it’s up to the country on how it would change with so many immigrants. My favorite example would have to be the Netherlands. During the 17th century, Amsterdam was a safe haven for immigrants. Amsterdam accepted immigrants fleeing from war or religious persecution. The Dutch accepted these immigrants and adjusted to their new diverse population. As a nation they were accepting to immigration. On the other hand, the U.S. was born of immigrants and then peopled by Irish, Germans, Chinese etc. I think that the U.S. is different for that reason. The U.S. is more diversified than many other places because it was born of immigrants in the first place. In my opinion, a nation is different after so much migration in the way that there is not one common belief throughout the nation. You will find all types of nationalities in the U.S. Yes, we all share the language of English but with so much migration many people know second or third languages. The U.S has built this image of “hope” for many immigrants seeking a better life. I know many people that were born in another country but raised in the U.S. For them, the U.S is their home because it is all they know and what they love.
ReplyDeleteHello Crystal,
DeleteI enjoyed reading your blog. I agree that many people that were born in another country but raised in the U.S. have grown to love and cherish what they have in the U.S. However, many of them never forget where they originally came from so they celebrate their culture in any way they can. As a result, the cultural traditions and beliefs celebrated by immigrants makes the U.S. very diverse.
Hi Crystal, yes immigration is such a sensitive topic because some people get offended or feel less if they are called immigrants. Although we should all be treated the same no matter what race, gender, or color. Great example Crystal. You have some great ideas!
DeleteHello Crystal
DeleteI agree with you, that this country has built an image of hope. In my situation my parents brought us to this country, so that my sister could have an open-heart surgery.
Hello Veronica, I can't express the amount of emotions i felt about hearing about your situation. I wish you and your family the best! (:
DeleteHi Kimberly, yes i agree that many immigrants never forget where they originally come from hence making the U.S. very diverse. I think that's what makes the U.S. so unique and fun to live in.
DeleteThanks Carla!(:
Immigrants change a country by bringing their cultural beliefs and traditions with them. Many immigrants migrate to a country so they can open their own cultural restaurant. They sell their traditional home food which allows people to experience and get a taste of how their culture is. Immigrants also change a country by increasing the country’s population, job demands, and the countries resources. Over the years, agricultural resources have increased with the help of Mexican immigrants. Many Mexicans have migrated to the U.S. for better opportunities. When they arrive to the U.S., the only job they qualify to work in is in an agricultural job. Their work has improved and increased the demand of agricultural resources. I believe that immigrants can positively or negatively impact a country. It really depends on why they decided to migrate away from their own country. Many immigrants migrate because they believe they have better opportunities to succeed in another country. They migrate to work, to receive a better education, and to create a better future for themselves and their family. Other immigrants migrate for no good reason but to increase crimes. I don’t believe that certain races should be blamed for certain issues and problems in a country. There are many immigrants who do migrate to a country with good intentions. It is sometimes even hard for immigrants to migrate out of their own country. There are many immigrants who have to leave their family behind so they can be able to offer them a better and brighter future.
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree that immigrants shouldn't be labeled as no-good-doers. We all come here to work hard, pay bills, and fulfill the American Dream.
DeleteHi Kimberly, yes I agree with you because this is the reason why we have such a variety of restaurants. We have so many food choices. Yes immigrants have really helped our country by the increase in produce such as fruits, vegetables, and food plants. I have a big admiration for those who take the risk to come to the U.S. and work for their families as much as they can so they can have a decent life. These are hard working people who don't give up and strive for a better future.
DeleteImmigration in the United States has had both different effects to traditions and the economy in positive ways and negative ones as well. One of the major topics of immigration that gets brought up is that it affects our economy because immigrants are taking over the jobs of American people and are working for cheaper labor and it hurts people that are more skilled and will be paid the same or just a bit more. It has also change America in the way that by having immigrants coming they help build a new mixed environment different mentalities, traditions and lifestyles. For example when the Irish and Chinese came to America they came here to build the rail roads across the U.S. this brought them to build their own towns and mix within each other. This was more common with labor workers and with that happening you can see certain towns or cities occupied by certain races for example “Chinatown”. This also made us very diverse in our economy its not all one race that is rich or poor in America, some have a better chance in the American dream, but that is also what immigration brought hope and new life in America for future Americans. Today we are seeing an immigration issue where Latinos have been targeted for immigrating here and judged, but as it has been seen and talked about is what would happen if there were no Latinos in the U.S. what would happen? We see immigration as a way of thriving to a better America, because that was what it was made up of.
ReplyDeleteI honestly do not see why some Americans feel so threatened by Latin American immigrants. The majority of us come here to do the jobs no one else is willing to do. The sons and daughters of immigrants then usually get a better paying job than their parents, which allows them to spend more money and therefore increase the economy. We are actually helping the economy. I guess some people just love having scapegoats when they are not happy with their lives.
DeleteIt is so funny how things have changed in such a short amount of time. My grandparents always tell me about how poor their families were as farmers as they worked the fields as poor white families. These jobs that "no one else will do" have been done for many many years and with even less technology not even 50 years ago. I think when there is vast poverty across the board people will work any job to provide for their families. Like during the depression and even now during the recession.
DeleteIn the past, it was harder for immigrants (especially those of color) to become accepted by the “true Americans” (people who assimilated to the American culture and whose ancestors came from Europe). Back then, when there were huge influxes of immigrants coming in to America, the “true Americans” felt threatened and felt that their country was being taken over by foreigners. Most immigrants were poor, and came to America for a chance to work and to give their family a better life. However, most “true Americans” did not see it that way. All they saw was that the immigrants were taking their jobs and making wages lower. Therefore, prejudices and discrimination were common. Also, immigrants would be looked down upon for looking different and having a different culture. Therefore, many tried to assimilate to the American culture to be better accepted in society. Generations passed, cultures and traditions mixed, and eventually the newer generations that were born in American from immigrants would be seen as “true Americans.” I feel this is particularly true for immigrants that came from Europe. I feel that it was harder for other ethnicities or races to be accepted as true Americans because of their different appearances.
ReplyDeleteIn the present, I believe that the majority of America is more open-minded, welcomes diversity, and is more tolerant of different religions. However, I do feel that America still has a disproportionate view of who Americans really are. In the media, it is the norm to see Caucasian models, news anchors, celebrities, politicians, etc. However, it is very unusual to see someone of a different race in the media. Where is the rest of America’s representation? I feel that America has improved a lot when it comes to accepting different ethnicities, but it still has a bit more room for improvement.
Hi Sylvia!
DeleteYour blog entry covered all the topics that arise in immigration and it was very interesting to read. It is true that many immigrants try to assimilate to the American culture in order to fit in but I believe that they should not try to "fit in" and instead keep their cultural identity. Well done!
HI Jessica!
DeleteI definitely agree with you. We should all be proud of our roots and who we are! With such a culturally diverse country, we can learn from other cultures, and be able to see things in a different light.
Like so many of my classmates have mention, immigration is a sensitive topic. Immigrants, as we all know established this country. Therefore, this country is different than other countries. This country gives us the opportunity to know other people from different parts of the world. We get to know their different foods, perspectives, culture, health care, family and opinions about anything really. For example, education, we can see that in different cultures is more important than others. Part of being educated is that we should be open to other perspectives and cultures, but most importantly learn from them. Being an immigrant my self I can relate to all the sufferings that we go through in order to achieve the “American dream.” Or, just to have food on the table and a roof over our heads. I remember growing up, how difficult it was for me to be proud of where I come from; because of all the negative things I will hear about immigrants with out giving us the opportunity to know us with out the label. I was accused of taking someone else’s, job but in reality I’m working to survive I’m not asking for nothing that I have not earn. I don’t know a lot of people that are willing to go out to the fields at 4 in the morning to pick grapes? in a temperature that reaches in some day’s 108degrees. During the winter we switch the grapes for oranges. The temperature reaches so low that we don’t feel our fingers the first hr. that we are picking the oranges. Jobs are always open, but for some reason they are only fulfill by us, the immigrants. I should say the Hispanic or Latino immigrants. Lets not forget that there are other immigrants from other countries, but for some reason we the Latinos are the ones that are more attack by others.
ReplyDeleteHello,
DeleteI must say I can really relate to you. I have worked in the field during the summer; this summer was my fourth year. While I do not work the full harvest season, I do work about half of it. I am not an immigrant myself; however, my parents did migrate to the United States. I am forever grateful with their decision because this country has been nothing but hope for all of us. Whenever we go visit my parents' hometown, it truly opens my eyes of how fortunate anyone living in the U.S. is.
At the rise of presidential elections, immigration is quite the topic. American seems to be on both sides of the end, and has made it clear. Because America was born of immigrants, it does make the circumstances more complex. This country was founded by immigrants and has continued to flourish through more immigrants that have brought rich culture, diversity, customs, etc. This heavy flow of cultures have caused the country to be categorized as a melting pot. The concept of a melting pot is amusing, for it encourages assimilation while also encouraging new customs to arise. Thus, America becomes even more diverse. Of course, cultural diversity is not the only part that changes; the economy is also greatly affected by the mass migrations over time. From the huge economic advancement caused by the railroad companies during the 1850's (where a vast majority of workers were immigrants) to the multi billion dollar agriculture industry (where most of the labor is also done by immigrants), there has been a positive impact in America. One very important fact to point out, most of the innovative workers in the Silicon Valley are actually immigrants who also cause the innovative industry to grow. This abundance of high skilled workers allow for more creativity to occur; thus, more innovations occur as a result of this. What I am trying to explain here is than not all immigrants work in low skilled jobs, and it is a shame that it is oftentimes over seen by a mass majority.
ReplyDeleteThis country is filled with diverse cultures that are a product of immigration. There are many positive perks due to immigration. For example like you mentioned new customs arising because of immigration. It changes the country for the good.
DeleteI believe that immigration is an amazing thing. It does change a country, and there are negatives and positives to having to much immigration, but I feel that’s what America is all about. One thing I notice how America is different from other countries is that we don’t automatically assume someone’s nationality is “American” when in fact the majority of us have American values and beliefs. Even I don’t come out and say that I am American but instead talk about my parents ancestry and talk about where my grandparents immigrated from. While I am proud of my ancestry, as many other people are as well, so I believe there is a strong divided in the country in that way. I do believe that that immigration is a great thing because we are able to meet so many people from so many different places in one day. It’s good to know about other countries and cultures and immigration does have a major impact in that way. And then there is the food that immigrants bring from their countries to here that change the landscape and may eventually become traditional dishes. The California burrito is a great example, while all burritos are delicious, the invention of the California burrito has kept part of it’s cultural background but also added a little (french fries!) and become a melding of two cultures to create one great thing. The impact immigration creates is not only with food, but with knowledge. It’s very hard to live a bubble when there are mass movements of immigration going on. It puts a spot light on what is happening in the world and it’s hard to be uneducated about it. While we have problems, it really makes you thankful to live in America.
ReplyDeleteImmigration is a great thing. Everyone has different ethnic backgrounds and it allows us to be unique in addition to bringing new ideologies to this nation. For example the California burrito and the French fries you mentioned. Over all the U.S. is a great nation.
DeleteWhile this topic is widely debated on, there is clear evidence of how our country is different because of our status as the great melting pot. Historically speaking, many immigrants come seeking jobs and a better life for their family, meaning they come in poverty. We see it time and time again. While the sad fact of the matter is that our economy hurts much of the time because we are put into a position of taking care of more people in our country than we may have the means to. My family immigrated here during the potato famine from Ireland. They lived in poverty, with 7 boys and a daughter, they needed help to survive and found that help through different members of their church. While it is an incredible thing to have such rich cultures through out the United States, we do have to see how it changes the dynamics of the economy. Many times it is difficult to assimilate, especially when there is a lot of discrimination against immigrants. There used to be signs in store prohibiting Irish, or say "Irish need not apply". There needs to be a better assimilation process and a better way to help immigrants rise out of poverty to eliminate inequality. I don't by any means think immigration is a bad thing, but right now it is being handled badly.
ReplyDeleteAlex, I agree our country has become a melting pot.
DeleteCountries change in numerous ways after each wave of immigration. The first being a widespread shift in the common out-group of each community. For example; after the immigration of the Irish in the 1840’s, people who were already living in the states previously hated the Native Indians and then shifted their hatred towards the new incoming Irish communities. Though this did not remove the racism towards the Indians, there was a new focus primarily towards the Irish. After each new wave the U.S. is drastically different, but it’s always a long process.
ReplyDeleteThe Nation is specifically different after generation changes. The races and ethnicities usually blend in each individual group until people identify with multiple different racial and ethnic groups. This is generally a good thing that increases societal tolerance and equality.
I personally think that immigration is a good thing when done properly and legally. Our country was founded on the basis that we would be a safe haven for rejects of other Nations. There is this quote under the Statue of Liberty that says “Give me your tired, your poor, Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, The wretched refuse of your teeming shore.” This is a clear depiction of how our founding fathers viewed proper immigration. Unfortunately I feel that with the focus of immigration from Mexico and Central America many people have a skewed view of immigrants.
I feel that proper immigration from Afghanistan is a topic that requires more attention. There are many Afghani people who have invested years working with U.S. soldiers and have sacrificed more for America than most American citizens have. These people are usually interpreters who work undercover in dangerous situations and care for our service members. I have multiple friends who after deployment say that these workers find it to be extremely difficult to get visas to the country and those who have, encounter prejudice when trying to find work. I understand that with the current election going on the main topic is unwanted Mexican immigration, which it a topic that is important. However; I think it would be wise to focus on those who have invested in our country and acted selflessly and deserve a chance to live on American soil.
Instead of focusing on us as a country and being equal, we end up segregating ourselves by classifying us by our race, instead of our nationality.Also, I do agree with you on the idea that Americas have a skewed view on immigration because of the situation going on with Mexico and Central America.
DeleteIt is really unfortunate that often people are generalized based on race rather than nationality. I am often suprised to meet so many immigrants who have actually come to the US legally and have obtained proper citizenship. Hopefully in our lifetime there will be other hotbtopics about immigration that alleviate the pressure of Mexican and Central American immigration.
DeleteIt changes a country to have so many immigrants because its gives culture and diversity to the populace. Immigration can also be a bad thing for the country because it causes hardships for the country to try to accommodate them. This however is rarely the case. Immigration is good if it is done correctly. Most people think of America to be the land of the free and that our rights should apply to all who come here, my opinion is different. I love immigration my family has direct roots from the Irish immigration, however immigration needs to be done legally. If it is not done legally it thrown off the census, health care system, and overall taxation. When the Irish came over America the government did not know what to do with them so it created an economic depression mainly for the Irish but also for the state of New York. A nation is therefore different for the better by immigration because when multiple cultures come together it adds to the great American melting pot. I do believe it is good to know where you came from and to celebrate a cultures history. But immigration is not always so cut and dry. When the Italians and Europeans “settled” America it force the Native American peoples to give up their land and most were killed off. This is horrific to think about but is never the less history. Colonization is only good for the victor but history rarely focuses on the ones that were killed or left behind. Again immigration is a great thing but it has to be done intelligently.
ReplyDeleteI do agree with you on the fact that not living in a country legally does affect taxation. That's a big issue right now with Mexicans being here illegally. Many are getting paid under the table and are not paying taxes. But, i do think that more people need to be open minded about the issue because, unless they're Native Americans, they also immigrated here.
DeleteI agree about being open minded and accepting however that still does not help with the taxation issues.
DeleteThere are a couple of ways in which immigration can change a country, it just depends on every person's own opinions. Some say that immigration ruins a country, some support it, and some are neutral about the topic. By having many immigrants coming into a country, we do face a risk of allowing potential terrorists to come in, but also there can be economic problems that can arise as well. For example, many people today are hesitant of Mexicans being here illegally due to the fact that many, if not all, get paid in full and do not pay taxes like the rest of us citizens. However, we fail to realize that, Most of the field workers, or jobs in which require a lot of physical labor and low wages, are done by Mexicans. Mexicans spend long hours being exposed to harsh weather harvesting and packaging produce in order to provide for their families. They do not wish to live a lavished life, they only wish for their families to be safe, and to provide food and shelter.
ReplyDeleteI do not think that a nation becomes different after a lot of immigration. Immigration does bring a lot of different cultures and customs to each country, however, I do believe that as a nation, we all adapt. We eventually embrace other cultures. Yet, there is still a sense of undesirability towards immigrants, especially from Mexico. I feel that we have to have compassion for these people; our ancestors, or even our own parents have all been in that position. They flee their countries to try to make a better living and start fresh in another country. Still, many struggle to make a living in America at first because they face racism along the way. We all need to be compassionate and accept these families into our country, we need to stop being judgmental and accept everyone as equals, and maybe then, immigration would not be such a horrible issue.
Natalie I agree with you that we as a nation need to be less judgmental, however I think that this is a slow tedious process. The problem with that is the damage is already done, so to speak.
DeleteHi Natalie! I agree with your post. Immigration does help us embrace other cultures. I find this to be very important because when we are exposed to different backgrounds we are able to better understand others and their behaviors.
DeleteThe U.S. is the best country in the world because it’s based on a diverse multitude of cultures and ethnicities that vary around the country. There could be many changes or differences that associate a diverse country from one that is not. It is wonderful that the U.S. is born from immigration and the different cultures that embody this land engrave individualistic traits that surpass them and are learned by others. This country is different because it allows us to learn and freely express how we are and feel about everything. However difference of opinions occurs and that is also what makes this country different. For example every immigrant brings different traditions with them and when they encounter something that goes against their moral standards they learn or realize that everyone is different. This nation is unique and from my perspective immigration is a good thing in order to learn different traditions and involve ourselves with different ways of thinking and viewing opinions. Over this entire nation is a great country. That’s why people immigrate here in search of opportunity and better way of living. The many cultures that immigrate here come to work and build a foundation in which they can economically sustain themselves and consequently educate themselves of the number of cultures that embody this country. Just think of all the Chinese, Mexican, Italian, restaurants and so on that diversify the country. No only different types of food represent immigration but also the ideologies and hardworking people that come to this country. Immigration in the U.S. is good.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed your response Andres. I agree with you in that immigrants bring their own traditions and along the way they will always encounter that goes against their own beliefs and moral standards. That's why this country is so great because everybody is different.
DeleteAndres do you think that the USA is really the best country in the world. Don't other countries have similar or better than we have it.
DeleteImmigrants have a huge toll on change for a country because they all bring different cultures, ideas, and religions. I do believe that the United States is one huge melting pot at this point in time. The United States is by far the greatest country due to it's huge diversities in people. This makes this country different from the rest because we have freedom to express ourselves and our beliefs. Having many different immigrants changes this country in many ways and makes it appealing to people from other countries because they see opportunity and a chance to better themselves despite their race, religion, and beliefs. No other country has what the United States has to offer. After so much immigration this nation is beautifully assorted with different colors, ideas, and foods. I personally am very happy that this nation was built from immigrants. I must admit that I enjoy trying all types of foods and enjoy seeing and attending celebrations from other ethnicities. Education has also flourished due to immigrants. Immigrants do not only bring their physical selves, but they also bring their thoughts and ideas. Everybody in this world can make a difference and has something to offer. I believe that immigrants have made the U.S. a better place. It's undeniable that with the good there is always bad as well and that will never change. Immigration to the U.S. is very appealing to people, so much that they are willing to risk there lives to get a chance of making it to the United States. I also believe that immigrants have helped balance out the U.S. because there is some work that people don't want to do and immigrants take it on due to their circumstances.
ReplyDeleteHey Jose! I agree that immigrants help shape our country. The level of diversity this country has is what helps bring new creations, cultures, and foods to a different level. Without immigrants, I feel like our country would be very bland.
DeleteHello Lorena!! Yes immigrants do make this country much more interesting in many ways!
DeleteI agree that immigration has helped diversity our country, and also helped us understand other cultures better. Also, I agree that immigration has helped fill jobs that most of us do not want to do.
DeleteHi Jose!
ReplyDeleteYes, the United States is currently one big melting pot. I agree that no other country has the benefits that the U.S. offers. A lot of people come to pursue the American Dream here which is great. Well done!
Thank you Jessica!!
DeleteImmigration has been a huge topic for quite sometime now. Everyone has a different perspective as to whether immigrants will improve or worsen a country. To start off, although I do believe there are some immigrants with bad intentions, I also believe most have positive intentions. Most immigrants come to America for a fresh start in life, and I see no problem with that. From my observations, most immigrants’ intentions are to find work to help build a better and solid foundation for themselves and/or their families. From my perspective, I feel immigrants are more appreciative for any work opportunities that may come their way. Compared to most U.S. residents, I feel as if we take things for granted. For instance, immigrants are willing to work hard labor in harsh working conditions, such as working in the fields. No matter what the work may be, they’re proud for every penny they earn. Not only do their intentions shine light on some of us, but the types of foods and cultures that are shared by them are simply amazing. The one thing that bothers me the most is, if one chooses to migrate to a different country, one must learn the main language of that country. For instance, if a Mexican were to migrate to the U.S. they must learn English rather than them expecting us to know Spanish. Donald Trump talks about immigrants being rapists, bringing drugs, and crime, but all I see is great culture, amazing food, and hard workers. Immigrants chase after the American Dream here in the U.S., so why not give it to them? I feel like most immigrants work just as hard, if not harder, than the average American.
ReplyDeleteHi Lorena, yes I agree with you and just like immigrants have negative or positive intentions so does any other race including American's themselves. Yes I totally agree with you because I feel the same way as if immigrants really appreciate their job and the opportunities they have in life. They work hard to have a better future for their family
DeleteI agree that immigrants should not expect their language to be spoken in the country they migrated to. I feel that we also need to take note that some immigrants do not get any type of education on the language once they arrive. Also, some ethnicities tend to live and work in places where only their language is spoken. I know that when I go to Santa Ana to go visit my aunt, when she goes to the grocery store, mall, work, etc, all that is spoken is Spanish. She is 54 years old, and she hasn't really needed to learn the language because of her environment. She has tried to but her environment hasn't allowed her to really. I feel that we should be patient with immigrants who have lived here for a while, but haven't gripped the English language quite well.
DeleteHey Carla! I have no problem with immigrants, people just label them wrongfully because they're a part of a different country. Those who aren't immigrants aren't labeled as bad as immigrants, even if they share the same thoughts and actions.
DeleteSylvia: Seeing it from your point of view now, I do understand why some Mexicans haven't become fluent in English. I guess I should rephrase what I mentioned in my post. It doesn't irritate me that they don't know how to speak English, but it irritates me when they get mad at me for not knowing Spanish, when in fact they're here in America. Just from past experiences when I was a cashier, I didn't mind getting someone who could translate for me that way I could better serve the customer. But when they start giving me dirty looks and start talking about me, is when things become unacceptable.
DeleteLorena I totally with you when you said, " It doesn't irritate me that they don't know how to speak English, but it irritates me when they get mad at me for not knowing Spanish, when in fact they're here in America". Coming from past experiences as a cashier as well I remember being told that I was a disgrace to my own race for not knowing spanish. When I can read it fine, understand it perfectly, but speak it poorly. At least I would try, but I would get very upset at the comments or the dirty looks it was ridiculous.
DeleteAlyssa: Yeah I completely agree with you on that one. I'm Filipino, and there would always be this one elder Filipino that would always ask me, "Do you speak Filipino?" Although I would tell him I understand a little bit of each language, since we do have multiple languages, he told me I'm not a Filipino then if I can't speak the language. I completely understand how you feel/felt.
DeleteHi Lorena, yes I agree with you and just like immigrants have negative or positive intentions so does any other race including American's themselves. Yes I totally agree with you because I feel the same way as if immigrants really appreciate their job and the opportunities they have in life. They work hard to have a better future for their family.
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DeleteThe United States has become a melting pot. Our country has a diverse population of individuals that originated in different countries, different religions, different cultures and so on. Throughout the years our nation has evolved and become more understanding towards individuals from different background then theirs. Immigration has been a topic that comes fairly often due to the fact that many Americans have concerns regarding where their money goes to and some may feel as if immigrants are taking their jobs as well. I personally know that many of the Mexican immigrants take on jobs that many Americans would not consider doing ever. They are constantly in horrible weather conditions when working in the fields along with working long hours all week. They provide services that many people in America should be grateful for. My grandfather came from Mexico and migrated to Arvin, California and he worked in the fields all his life because of lack of education, but never did he complain. One thing he taught his family is that is did it the right way. He studied so hard to become an American citizen and the day he became a citizen he was overjoyed. I understand immigrants come to the United States to better themselves and/or their family, but I feel it is a necessity to do it the right way as well. I welcome people from different cultures and backgrounds because I love to learn about diversity and the diverse population here in America is what make us the "land of the free".
ReplyDeleteI do agree that immigrants should come to the U.S. legally. I also commend to those who are willing to work harder jobs than most Americans. Not only Mexicans work hard in the fields, but I also have family who came from the Philippines to live a better life, but are working their butts off at the fields.
DeleteHello Alyssa! I completely agree with your post. I believe that whether a person is a field worker or doctor they all hold a very important part of society. Without immigrants this country as a whole wouldn't even exist. We need to realize the history of where we've come from and help those who are trying to achieve the same thing.
DeleteThe topic of immigration is very popular and controversial especially during this time. With many people having different opinions on it, it is a great topic for discussion. Immigration affects a country in many different ways. Sometimes it benefits a country and sometimes it can harm a country. But this goes for everything. Too much of anything can be bad. Immigration can be positive because it enriches an already standing culture with variety among other things. Most of the time immigrants fill in the hard labor jobs that a society needs in order to run smoothly. In other circumstances immigration can cause over population and other problems. However, I personally feel that the United States is very different from any other country. Because we are a country born of immigrants we should welcome all amongst certain circumstances. The reason we are all here in the first place is because people from all different countries came here to find freedom and peace, to deny that or any version of that to anyone else seems wrong. Immigration makes any country different because it fills the area with different cultures and points of view. However, I feel that the most important thing that immigration changes is people. It units us in a very special way. A child growing up in a country with a lot of immigration will be more exposed to different cultures and ways of life. This broadens their views and opens their minds to being more understanding towards other human beings. Science proves that variation is key to evolution. For that reason, I feel that immigration should be seen as a positive key to any country.
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