The Immigration Reform Haggadah

What makes the current wave of immigration different from all past immigration?

In the past immigrants embraced America and hastened to assimulate but current immigrants eschew becoming Americans and assert their differences.

In the past immigrants were self reliant and eager to learn English but current immigrants demand special assistance, affirmative action and support for their language.

In the past immigrants were thankful to be able to participate in the American economy but current immigrants think they are doing Americans a favor by working.

In the past immigrants filled the land but then their numbers abated as assimilation proceeded but current immigrants increase in number making ethnic division more likely.
 

 
THE FOUR SONS

The Wise Son asks: "What are the immigration laws, statutes, and ordinances?"
To this son we explain how immigration has been a fabric of American life but since 1965 changes in the law have transformed the nature and numbers of the immigration picture in ways that are harmful.

The Evil Son has excluded himself from questions of immigration.
To this son we chastize, "Your future is at risk and your ignorance shall reap awful consequences for you and your brothers."

The Simple Son asks: "What is immigration?"
To him we say that people all over the world wish to improve their lives and many billions want to do so by coming to America. We take pride in this but our greatest duty is to preserve our own country while helping the multitudes in their own land.

And then there is the son who doesn't even know how to ask.
To him we say, "You are too young to know what is happening but to you we pledge our solemn efforts at reforming immigration so that you will have a safe and secure future."

— Tim Aaronson