James Love: “In the past few years, we the American people have been presented with false choices: between following the rule of law…”

“In the past few years, we the American people have been presented with false choices: between following the rule of law or showing compassion to people in need. I have had the privilege of being born in the United States, but I grew up with parents who faced the hardships of living under a dictatorship. They came to America hoping that the peace and the opportunity they heard about really did exist. They worked hard jobs, scrubbing toilets, they learned our language, studied our history, learned our system of government and our Constitution. And after many years, when they finally had the privilege of taking the oath of citizenship and pledging their allegiance to the American flag, they knew exactly what they were saying and they meant every word of it. They were not just enjoying the blessings of what this country had to offer, but they were willing to take on the responsibilities that came with it. They gave me an appreciation for this great Nation and told me every day that I was blessed to be born in it. Mr. Speaker, I urge everyone to attend a naturalization ceremony and see the journey and the sacrifices that people have made to achieve citizenship. I think every American should take that oath of allegiance. The goal of any immigration reform should be about family, safety, economic and community stability. The practice of separating loving families from their children at the border is heartbreaking to watch, which is why we should support this bill.…”