William R. Richardson: “Almost all Americans realize the value of past immigration. They look with pride at their ancestors, who came to this…”

“Almost all Americans realize the value of past immigration. They look with pride at their ancestors, who came to this country full of energy with empty pockets and were able to succeed and improved the quality of life of all Americans. Yet, many people doubt the value of immigration today. Too many Americans wrongly believe that today's immigrants drain our economy and use far more welfare than native-born citizens. There is nothing further from the truth. Today's immigrants come to this country with the same desire, energy, and enthusiasm to succeed and looking for opportunities, not guarantees. I have one of these immigrants working in my office. A legislative fellow now on my office staff arrived in this country only 7 years ago without knowing English and with only a ninth grade education. In only 5 years, this young woman managed to learn English, get a high school diploma and graduate from the School of Foreign Service at Georgetown University. She, like many of those immigrants who came to this country within the past 100-plus years, came with empty pockets and a tremendous desire to succeed and take advantage of the opportunities that America still offers. The Chrysler, Berman, and Brownback amendment would keep the doors open to law abiding immigrants, who like the fellow in my office, come to this country not only looking for a better life, but also bring with them the desire and energy that has made America a great Nation.”